A well-established Fresh Produce Distributor with a strong brand and legacy is searching for a CEO or COO to lead and optimize their operational excellence. The CEO / COO will provide leadership to position the company at the forefront of the produce industry. Develop a strategic plan to advance the company's mission and objectives and to promote revenue, profitability and growth as an organization. The CEO / COO oversees company operations to ensure production efficiency, quality, safety and cost-effective management of resources. The successful candidate will be a team player and mentor. They will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of daily operations, aligning with their strategic goals, and fostering a culture of innovation and high performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan, develop, organize, implement, direct and evaluate the company’s business units, vision, mission and overall strategy.
• Ensure agreed strategies are implemented and compliance with regulatory authorities is maintained.
• Establish short – and long-term goals and advise on the impact of long-range planning and new business ventures.
• Participate in the development of the company’s plans and programs.
• Enhance or develop, implement and enforce policies and procedures that will in turn improve overall operation and effectiveness.
• Maintain awareness of the competitive landscapes, opportunities for expansion, customers, markets and new industry developments and standards.
• Provide leadership to staff and educate them on business objectives to enhance performance.
• Hire, evaluate and provide professional development opportunities for the company’s senior management team.
• Remain abreast of industry trends or changes.
• Provide strategic financial input and leadership on decision making issues affecting the company.
• Provide customers with effective service. 

Qualifications:

• Proven experience with 5+ years in a senior operational role, preferably in food wholesale
  and distribution, with an emphasis on produce.
• Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
• Expertise in business operations and process optimization.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to fostering a positive and performance-driven workplace culture.
• Prior experience with EOS implementation a plus.
• Experience in building a team environment, optimizing team engagement and performance.
• Dynamic leader with sales and warehouse experience.
• Six Sigma Certification, PMP, CSCP, and CPIM a plus.
• Food safety, quality control, supply chain management, CAPEX experience a plus.

*Attractive Base Salary, Bonus, Profit Sharing, 401K, Health Insurance, & Relocation Assistance provided

Please contact Nathan Stornetta, nathan@producecareers.com