Business Unit Director

The Business Unit Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of manufacturing performance within their assigned business unit. This includes accountability for safety, quality, productivity, cost, and talent development to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.

This role is responsible for developing and executing the business unit's long-term strategy, aligning operational priorities with Heartland's corporate objectives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. The Director will lead a large, diverse team and drive performance through effective leadership, process optimization, and innovation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own full P&L accountability for the Syrups & Concentrates unit, driving results across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people development metrics.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to optimize manufacturing performance, increase efficiency, and maximize return on assets.
• Ensure that all lines, processes, and technologies are designed and maintained for operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and cost effectiveness.
• Partner with R&D and Engineering to support product innovation, providing an operational lens to new product development and commercialization.
• Build, coach, and develop a high-performing leadership team capable of solving complex operational challenges and achieving both short- and long-term objectives.
• Lead a workforce of approximately 20-30 manufacturing professionals, ensuring engagement, accountability, and career development.
• Champion automation and digital transformation initiatives to improve productivity, reduce variability, and strengthen manufacturing capability.
• Foster a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Leverage data and analytics for decision-making, problem-solving, and root cause analysis.
• Maintain and promote Heartland's core cultural values: Friendly, Competent, and Available.
• Oversee staffing, hiring, training, and organizational development to ensure the right talent is in place to meet evolving business needs.
• Set and communicate clear performance expectations; regularly assess and review progress toward KPIs.
• Systematically identify and eliminate operational losses, driving measurable improvement in safety, quality, cost, and service.
• Serve as a key member of the Operations Leadership Team, contributing to company-wide strategy and execution.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering; MBA or related advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Minimum 10–15 years of progressive experience in Operations, Manufacturing, or Engineering leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success in P&L management and delivering results in complex manufacturing environments.
• Strong technical background in high-speed processing systems, controls, and automation.
• Experience in food-grade manufacturing environments (FDA, GMP, HACCP) strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to lead and develop large teams, building a culture of accountability and engagement.
• Strategic thinker with demonstrated ability to translate vision into actionable operational plans.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds.