Operations Launch Manager

The Operations Launch Manager leads cross-functional food product and process projects from pre-launch through qualified production in a food manufacturing environment. This role combines strong food science expertise with disciplined project management to ensure products are safe, compliant, scalable, and delivered on time and within budget. The ideal candidate bridges R D, Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams while maintaining a strong understanding of food safety, formulation, and manufacturing constraints.

Employee Type:

Full time

Location:

NY Medina Job Type:

Production Operations Job Posting Title:

Operations Launch Manager Job Description:

Schedule:

Mon - Fri for 24/7 mfg

Work Location:

4001 Salt Works Road Medina, NY 14103

Benefits:

Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness. Salary, based on experience and other qualifications: $93k - $158k annually with additional bonus potential Key Responsibilities Project Management Lead pre-launch food projects through qualified production of product development, including new products, reformulations, line extensions, and process improvements Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, ingredient and packaging inventory, and trial plans Facilitate cross-functional project teams and maintain accountability for deliverables Identify risks, develop mitigation plans, and escalate issues as needed Communicate project status, milestones, and results to stakeholders and leadership Food Science & Technical Leadership Provide technical guidance on formulation, ingredients, processing, and material expiration Ensure products meet sensory, nutritional, regulatory, and food safety requirements Partner with Quality and Regulatory teams to ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, FSMA, and customer requirements Support scale-up from bench to pilot to full production Troubleshoot product or process issues during trials and commercialization Manufacturing & Commercialization Collaborate with Operations to ensure manufacturability and cost targets are met Coordinate plant trials, including documentation, data collection, and outcomes Support continuous improvement initiatives related to quality, efficiency, and waste reduction Work with Procurement on ingredient sourcing and supplier qualifications Documentation & Governance Maintain accurate project documentation, specifications, and change controls Ensure stage-gate or project governance processes are followed Capture lessons learned and support standardization best practices Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Engineering, or a related technical field required Experience 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing, R D, or technical project management Proven experience leading cross-functional projects in a manufacturing environment Hands-on experience with product launch and scale-up 1 year of Project Management experience and experience with new product or SKU launch is preferred Continuous Improvement background is preferred Technical Skills Strong understanding of food formulation, processing, and ingredient functionality Knowledge of food safety systems (HACCP, FSMA, GMPs) Familiarity with regulatory and labeling requirements Experience with sensory evaluation and shelf-life testing Project Management Skills Strong planning, organization, and prioritization skills Experience with stage-gate or formal project management methodologies Proficient in project management and documentation tools Key Competencies Cross-functional leadership and influence Strong communication and stakeholder management Problem-solving and critical thinking Ability to translate technical details into actionable plans Comfortable working in both lab and manufacturing floor environments Physical & Work Environment Requirements Ability to work in manufacturing environments, including exposure to noise, temperature variations, and food allergens Ability to wear required PPE and stand/walk for extended periods during plant trials Occasional travel to plants, suppliers, or customers as required Preferred Certifications (Optional) Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent HACCP or PCQI certification

EEO Statement:

Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. About Us At Winland Foods, we're passionate about creating exceptional food experiences that bring people together. We are a dynamic and growing company specializing in meal preparation products—from pasta and sauces to plant-based proteins and more. Our portfolio includes beloved consumer brands and custom private-label solutions for retail and foodservice channels. Why Work With Us? We believe in being exceptional from the land to the table.

That means:

Commitment to

Quality:

We consistently exceed industry standards across our value chain.

Sustainability & Responsibility:

We prioritize environmental stewardship and make a positive impact on the world around us.

People First:

The safety, well-being, and growth of our employees are at the heart of everything we do. Our Culture We're a team of food enthusiasts who value collaboration, innovation, and integrity. At Winland Foods, you'll find an environment where your ideas matter, your contributions are recognized, and your career can thrive. Explore Opportunities At Winland Foods, you'll find opportunities across operations, supply chain, marketing, and product development—roles where your work truly makes an impact. By joining our team, you become part of a forward-thinking organization that values passion, collaboration, and shared success with our customers. Together, we're shaping the future of food. To All Recruitment Agencies Winland Foods does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to Winland Foods employees, or any company location(s). Winland Foods is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.