A well-established produce importer/distributor is searching for a National Director of Operations to join their team in CA or PA. The Director of Operations will oversee all tactical and strategic operational functions across the company’s fresh produce import business. This position partners closely with Senior Management, Sales, Transportation, Sourcing, and Quality Control to ensure the seamless flow of product through ports, cold storage, and customer destinations nationwide. This leader drives continuous operational improvement and plays a key role in shaping long term strategy.

Responsibilities & Duties: 

• Oversee national operational execution from port to customer across all U.S. geographies.
• Develop and implement strategic and tactical operational initiatives aligned with company goals.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to design supply chain strategies that ensure efficiency and cold chain integrity.
• Develop 3- and 5-year operational plans for the core business in collaboration with Senior Management and lead the execution of these plans.
• Lead the transformation of the Operations department into a revenue-generating business unit offering third-party operational services.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with growers, shipping lines, vendors, importers, port and warehouse personnel, and other key stakeholders.
• Serve as the lead negotiator for vendor rates and operating contracts to ensure cost-effective, high-quality service.
• Build and lead a high-performing national operations team.
• Oversee recruitment, development, and performance management.
• Serve as the lead liaison with government agencies (USDA, CBP, FDA, etc.) for national compliance matters.
• Ensure compliance with and enforcement of all Federal, State, and local food safety and import regulations, including HACCP protocols.
• Establish KPIs for operational performance and regularly report outcomes to leadership.
• Develop and manage national operational budgets and cost-efficiency plans.
• Lead the evaluation and implementation of new technologies, tools, and infrastructure to enhance operations. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, foreign equivalent, or equivalent work experience in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a closely related degree from an accredited institution is strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of direct or related experience in fresh produce logistics, supply chain, import/export operations, or related roles in the fresh produce industry is required.
• 5+ years’ experience in a senior management or director-level role is required. Proven experience managing multi-site or national operations is required.
• Bi-lingual English Spanish preferred
• Expertise in USDA, FSMA, PPQ, CBP, and FDA regulations and their practical application within national operations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and team-building capabilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Fact-based decision making and openness to process improvement.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrates adaptability, integrity, and accountability.
• Ability to navigate and resolve conflict constructively.
• Ability to multi-task and perform in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate a vehicle to visit port locations, inland warehouses, and cold storage facilities.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Ability to work extended hours, evenings and/or weekends as Company needs require.

Please contact Jennifer Mazza, jennifer@producecareers.com

Compensation: DOE, Bonus, Medical Benefits, 401K

Compensation: DOE