At Van Drunen Farms, we're not just providing ingredients; we're providing people with purpose and possibility. As a trusted partner in delivering fruit, vegetable, herb, and grain-based ingredient solutions to companies around the globe, we're striving to build a values-aligned workforce that embodies humility, integrity, passion, and excellence.
Responsibilities
Lead all plant operations, overseeing people, processes, and assets to deliver safe, high-quality products on schedule.
Set and execute plant strategy, goals, and budgets to drive performance across safety, quality, service, and profitability.
Build and develop high-performing teams by fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
Partner with Operations Leadership to support company-wide supply strategy and production planning.
Drive operational excellence through process improvements, efficiency gains, and throughput optimization.
Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards, including OSHA and food safety programs.
Serve as the plant's primary leader for customer engagement, community relations, and overall organizational health.
Requirements
10+ years of experience in plant operations or manufacturing leadership roles.
Proven success leading a food processing or manufacturing facility.
Strong financial and operational acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and performance metrics.
Strategic mindset with the ability to execute and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Strong leadership presence with excellent communication and team development skills.
Working knowledge of production systems, equipment, and operational controls.
Bachelor's degree preferred.
What You Can Look Forward To
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
Paid holidays and vacation.
Tuition assistance and 401(k) with company match.
Executive-level leadership opportunity with full plant ownership.
Ability to shape culture, performance, and long-term operational strategy.
Career growth within a global ingredient manufacturing organization.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Ability to work in both office and production environments as needed.
Occasional walking of the plant floor with exposure to noise, temperature changes, and production conditions.
Ability to respond to operational needs, including urgent or emergency situations.
The ideal candidate must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.
If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please contact us at recruiting@vandrunen.com .
Van Drunen Family of Companies may use artificial intelligence ("AI") in its recruitment and hiring process. To the extent AI is used, Van Drunen Family of Companies ensures that its use does not result in discrimination against applicants on the basis of any protected class.
Benefits
Health insuranceDental insuranceVision insurance401(k)Paid time offPerformance bonus
Additional Information
The Van Drunen Family of Companies is growing!
Expected Pay Range: $135,000 - $155,000
Bonus: This role may further qualify for supplemental compensation in the form of bonus and incentive programs, contingent upon achieving pre-established individual and company performance metrics.
Benefits Available : 2026-benefits-summary.pdf
Vandrunenfarms · Momence, IL