Production Manager

Position: Production Manager

Location: Oakville, Ontario

Status: Full-time, Permanent (1)

Quadra is one of the largest distributors of chemicals and ingredients in North America. We have facilities strategically located across Canada and the United States to service our customers. Our Oakville, Ontario facility, part of our Ingredients division, specializes in developing, commercializing, and producing high-quality and functional food ingredient dry blends sold across various market segments.  This is also the location of our R&D and Applications lab where the team supports not only our manufacturing business but also our distribution business through technical support, concept development and other innovation inspiration for our customers. 

We are currently recruiting a seasoned Production Manager that has a passion for maintaining high-quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives. Reporting to the Regional Manufacturing Operations & Continuous Improvement Manager, the Production Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations, while fostering high performance and continuous improvement methodologies in productivity, safety, and profitability.

As a Production Manager, you will manage and supervise operations personnel to ensure the manufacture of high quality and cost-effective products that meet the expectations and needs of customers while ensuring a safe working environment for employees. We are looking for a charismatic leader with experience in the food production/manufacturing industry. We're looking for a self-motivated individual who's not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get involved on the floor.

What would be your main responsibilities as a Production Manager?:

People Leadership

• Oversee the daily operations and goals of a team comprising approximately 20+ direct operations and distribution employees
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the operations, while managing the day-to-day operations
• Provide training and development opportunities to foster the growth and skill development of the production team
• Collaborate effectively with department heads to ensure smooth execution of production schedules and meet customer demands
• Lead recruitment efforts, talent management, and assist with the development of our human development programs

Productivity & Process Improvements

• Develop and utilize operational analytics to monitor and measure performance, aiding in problem-solving and operational optimization
• Lead and execute improvement projects aimed at enhancing overall production processes and identifying cost-saving opportunities
• Implement industry standards and best practices as it relates to production process developments, risk assessment and system requirements

Quality & Safety Initiatives

• Maintain a primary focus on employee safety and product quality while seeking ways to enhance efficiency and lower unit costs
• Foster the development of production quality and control systems to uphold the highest quality standards
• Monitor and assess safety margins and cultures through internal committees, ensuring compliance with industry standards
• Develop and uphold sustainability, environmental, health and safety practices
• Collaborate closely with our internal teams to sustain the highest level of food safety standards
• Ensure compliance with GMP, BRCS, and other regulatory and customer quality and safety requirements

What are the requirements needed to have success in this role?:

• Hold a post-secondary degree/diploma in a relevant field such as Engineering or Food Science, or equivalent industry experience
• Possess at least 8 to 10 years’ of proven management experience within manufacturing or production environments
• Experienced leader with effective communication capabilities to communicate to all levels of the organization
• Proven leader that works effectively in a teamwork-oriented, high-performance culture, delivering results while providing exemplary customer service to both internal and external stakeholders

• Strong experience and understanding of the food manufacturing/production process with stringent quality requirements
• Knowledge of machinery, equipment, and technology relevant to the food production/manufacturing industry
• Strong organization skills with a proven experience to plan and coordinate production schedules, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to meet production targets
• Proven problem-solving skills to face challenges such as quality issues, supply chain disruptions, equipment

• Demonstrate effective communication skills and flexible time management to prioritize workload effectively
• Show a willingness to provide hands-on support and leadership on the plant floor
• Experienced to manage change and challenges while maintaining consistency and stability
• Possess experience and background in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma
• Knowledge or experience with food science certifications such as GMP and BRCS
• Working knowledge and familiarity with OHSA, WSIB, ESA, CSA, Ontario Fire Code, and HRA processes is considered a strong asset

At Quadra, we offer not only an engaging culture, a collaborative, family-oriented and supportive environment, but also plenty of autonomy and flexibility. We also offer you the opportunity to be part of a professional, fun, innovative and committed team in a growing, people-oriented, Great Place to Work® certified organization. In addition to being Great Place to Work® certified, Quadra has been recognized as one of the Best Managed Companies for over 20 years and as a Great Place to Work for Women®! You will work with dynamic colleagues who are eager to share their knowledge with you.

Benefits for choosing Quadra?

• Competitive salary and generous performance incentive program $
• Full benefits coverage (dental, medical, etc.)
• Programs offered to employees to improve their quality of life (Wellness Portfolio)
• Virtual care/telemedicine for you and your loved ones; 24/7 access to a physician
• Virtual wellness and mental health programs with a global healthcare leader
• Retirement plan with a match and several long-term investment programs
• Vacation, personal days and flexible days
• Flexible work environment & Disconnection Policy
• Caring for each other and having fun are part of our core values!
• A company that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Digital environment
• Customized training built for you
• Opportunities for advancement and professional development; a growing company that focuses on its people!
• Participate in various internal and external trainings
• Possibility of joining various company committees
• Social activities organized by the company
• Employee recognition program (years of service, merit awards, etc.)
• Private and family-owned company with a solid infrastructure
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Possibility to travel across the country for team meetings and trainings
• Employee referral programs $
• And much more!

Quadra supports and values diversity and offer equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status and gender identity. Quadra also welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. We recognize that some people do not identify themselves as either male or female. Therefore, whenever possible, we have opted for a gender-neutral wording in a non-discriminatory spirit.