Job Details

Pay Range

Base: $200,000–$230,000/yr (actual pay based on skills & experience). We also offer relocation support for qualified candidates.

About the Company

Our client Agristo, a leader in the global frozen foods industry, is establishing a new state‑of‑the‑art production facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

About the Role

Seeking an experienced Plant Director to lead both the startup and long‑term operations of this greenfield facility. Reporting to the COO of International Expansion, this senior leadership role will bring Agristo's “Field to Fork” vision to life through world‑class operational strategies, safety standards, quality systems, and team development. This position plays a pivotal role in scaling Agristo's U.S. footprint.

Responsibilities

• Build and lead a high‑performing plant leadership team (6+ direct reports)
• Translate global business strategy into actionable 1‑to‑3‑year plant objectives
• Design and implement a scalable operating model aligned with global counterparts

Startup & Capital Projects

• Lead all aspects of plant startup, from commissioning to full production
• Drive capacity expansion projects, including automation and infrastructure investments

Operational Excellence & Financial Management

• Implement Lean, TPM, and 5S methodologies across the site
• Oversee full plant P&L and budget planning processes
• Align plant KPIs with group‑wide performance benchmarks
• Drive a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all EH&S regulations
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in health and safety performance

Hygiene & Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with hygiene, GMP, and food safety standards
• Lead internal audit programs and instill a culture of quality discipline across the plant

Customer & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure readiness for customer audits, certifications, and inspections
• Establish robust food defense and regulatory compliance systems

External Relations & Community Engagement

• Serve as Agristo's local representative to community stakeholders, authorities, and partners
• Promote strong community engagement and uphold the company's brand reputation

Qualifications

Education & Training

• Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field
• Certifications in Lean, Safety, or Leadership preferred; MBA is a plus

Experience

• Minimum 8 years in manufacturing, ideally within food production or consumer packaged goods
• At least 5 years in a senior plant or regional leadership role
• Experience with full P&L ownership and greenfield startups in North America is highly desirable

Required Skills

• Strategic thinker with a pragmatic, hands‑on leadership style
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• In‑depth knowledge of U.S. regulatory, safety, and quality systems
• Entrepreneurial, resilient, and highly adaptable in cross‑cultural environments
• Experience in leading teams in a fast‑paced environment
• Proven track record of driving operational improvements

Pay range and compensation package

We offer a competitive salary and relocation support for qualified candidates.

Seniority Level

Director

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Manufacturing, Management, Production