Role Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Operations Manager to lead the launch and day-to-day operations of our cloud kitchen specializing in premium pasta manufacturing and recipes.
The ideal candidate will have strong operational leadership, food production experience (preferably in cloud kitchens or fast-paced food manufacturing setups), and a proactive mindset to build and continuously optimize the operational processes, supply chain, and team culture.
This is a unique opportunity to join an ambitious startup dedicated to quality, innovation, speed, and exceptional teamwork.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Daily Operations and Production Oversight
- Supervise the production workflow, including preparation, cooking, packaging, and delivery.
- Conduct daily kitchen inspections to ensure hygiene, safety, and operational readiness.
- Coordinate daily production meetings with the head chef and preparation teams to review production schedules and volume forecasts.
- Monitor and enforce adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), recipe consistency, food safety (HACCP), and hygiene standards.
- Directly oversee peak operational periods (lunch, dinner rushes), ensuring fast and flawless execution.
- Manage the daily post-shift reporting, performance analytics, and plan for the next day's operations.
2. Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Establish and monitor quality control measures at all production stages.
- Ensure compliance with local food regulatory authorities and internal HACCP programs.
- Lead food safety audits, health inspections, and internal quality evaluations.
3. Supply Chain and Inventory Management
- Manage inventory levels using digital inventory management tools
- Monitor ingredient quality, raw material usage, and order replenishment based on forecasts.
- Negotiate with suppliers to maintain cost control without compromising quality.
4. Team Leadership and Culture Development
- Recruit, train, and develop a high-performance kitchen operations team.
- Foster a culture of quality, teamwork, transparency, and continuous learning aligned with company values.
- Lead regular team briefings, feedback sessions, and structured operational training.
5. Performance Management and Reporting
- Track and analyze KPIs such as order fulfillment time, production efficiency, customer rating improvements, waste reduction, and cost per order.
- Utilize digital analytics tools (e.g., Tableau, Google Analytics) to generate operational insights.
- Prepare weekly and monthly performance reports for senior management.
6. Technology and Systems Management
- Oversee the usage and optimization of operational systems including:
- Order Management Systems
- Inventory Management Systems
- Scheduling and Workforce Management Tools
- Collaboration Platforms
- Quality Management Systems (HACCP compliance tools)
7. Continuous Improvement Initiatives
- Lead projects to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
- Drive initiatives for recipe innovation, packaging improvement, and service delivery upgrades.
- Foster a mindset of innovation and proactive problem-solving within the operations team.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience:
- 5–8 years of experience in operations management, preferably within cloud kitchens, food production, or quick-service restaurant environments.
- Prior experience launching or scaling food manufacturing units/startups is a major advantage.
Skills
Technical Skills:
- Proficient in cloud kitchen operational technologies (POS, OMS, Inventory Systems).
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data dashboards and KPIs to drive decisions.
- Advanced understanding of food safety (HACCP, ISO 22000 standards).
Soft Skills:
- Ability to lead in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to product consistency.
- High adaptability, resilience under pressure, and excellent interpersonal communication.
- Team-first leadership style, valuing collaboration, discipline, and innovation.
