Operations Manager - Local Food Supply Chain

About Us

We are a nonprofit local food distributor committed to connecting communities with fresh, healthy food from regional farms. Our work strengthens small- and mid-scale farms, promotes environmental sustainability, and ensures that schools, hospitals, and other anchor institutions have reliable access to quality, values-based food.

The Position

The Operations Manager will play a critical role in ensuring that our supply chain runs smoothly, efficiently, and in compliance with the highest food safety standards. This position combines hands-on operational oversight with relationship-building across our producer network. The Operations Manager is responsible for procurement and production planning, overseeing the site’s food safety program (SQF), and managing supplier vetting and onboarding.

This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with a strong understanding of supply chain management, food safety compliance, and local food systems.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Production Planning

• Place purchase orders (POs) to meet customer demand and inventory requirements.
• Run forecasting reports and collaborate with the sales team to align procurement with customer demand.
• Develop and manage production plans that optimize efficiency and minimize waste.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Oversee implementation and maintenance of the site’s SQF-certified food safety program.
• Ensure compliance with all FDA, USDA, and FSMA 204 traceability regulations.
• Conduct internal audits, manage CAPA logs, and lead food safety training for staff.

Supplier Relations & Onboarding

• Vet potential farm and supplier partners for compliance with organizational standards.
• Oversee onboarding, including review of food safety certifications (GAP, GFSI, 2nd party audits).
• Support farms in meeting organizational and regulatory requirements, including GAP certification.

Operations Leadership

• Work closely with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure seamless flow of product from farm to customer.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and National Operations Director on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate in cross-departmental meetings to align operations with organizational goals.

Required:

• 5+ years of experience in supply chain management, procurement, or food operations.
• Strong knowledge of food safety programs (SQF, HACCP, GAP, GMPs).
• Proven ability to manage procurement cycles and production planning.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, and mission-driven environment.

Preferred:

• Experience working with local/regional farms or food distributors.
• Background in nonprofit or values-driven food enterprises.

• $80,000 annual salary
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development
• Meaningful work in a mission-driven, supportive environment