COO, Food Processing Technology – Minneapolis, MN

Role Overview for COO, Food Processing Technology – Minneapolis, MN

JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) on behalf of our client, a pioneering leader in the food processing technology sector. Based in the vibrant business hub of Minneapolis, MN, our client is at the forefront of innovation, developing and implementing cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in food production. This is a rare opportunity to join a rapidly growing company and play a pivotal role in shaping its future trajectory.

As the COO, you will be the strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), entrusted with translating the company’s vision into operational reality. You will have comprehensive oversight of all internal operations, including manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, engineering, and R&D. The ideal candidate is a seasoned operational leader with a profound understanding of the food and beverage industry, a passion for technology, and a proven track record of scaling operations, driving profitability, and building world-class teams.

This executive position demands a leader who is both a strategic thinker and a hands-on executor. You will be responsible for implementing robust systems and processes that can support aggressive growth, ensuring that the company’s operational capabilities are a key competitive advantage. You will lead the charge in continuous improvement initiatives, championing a culture of excellence, accountability, and data-driven decision-making across the organization. If you are an inspirational leader ready to make a significant impact in a high-growth, technology-driven environment, we invite you to explore this career-defining opportunity.

Key Responsibilities of COO, Food Processing Technology – Minneapolis, MN

The Chief Operating Officer will be responsible for a wide range of critical functions, ensuring the seamless and efficient execution of the company’s strategic objectives. Key responsibilities include:

Strategic & Operational Leadership

Partner with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute the company’s long-term strategic plan, ensuring operational alignment with business goals.

Translate strategic initiatives into actionable operational plans, establishing clear KPIs and metrics to monitor performance and drive results.

Oversee the entire spectrum of day-to-day operations, including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain management, logistics, procurement, and quality control.

Champion a culture of operational excellence by implementing best practices such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize processes, reduce waste, and increase productivity.

Financial & Performance Management

Assume full P&L responsibility for all operational departments, developing and managing annual budgets, forecasts, and capital expenditure plans.

Analyze operational and financial data to identify trends, opportunities for cost reduction, and areas for investment to improve profitability and efficiency.

Establish and enforce rigorous performance standards to ensure production targets, quality benchmarks, and financial goals are consistently met or exceeded.

Technology, Innovation & Scalability

Drive the evaluation and implementation of new technologies, including automation, robotics, AI, and IoT solutions, to enhance manufacturing capabilities and maintain a competitive edge.

Oversee the R&D and engineering departments to foster innovation in product development and process technology, ensuring a robust pipeline of next-generation solutions.

Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for scaling operations to support rapid business growth, including capacity planning, facility expansion, and potential M&A integration.

Supply Chain & Quality Assurance

Direct and optimize the end-to-end supply chain, from raw material procurement to finished goods distribution, to ensure reliability, cost-effectiveness, and resilience.

Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and strategic partners, negotiating favorable contracts and terms.

Uphold the highest standards of product quality and food safety, ensuring strict compliance with all regulatory requirements, including FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF, and BRC standards. Lead the quality assurance team to maintain certifications and exceed customer expectations.

Team Development & Culture

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, multi-disciplinary operations team, fostering a collaborative, innovative, and accountable work environment.

Implement robust talent management strategies, including performance management, succession planning, and professional development programs to build organizational capability.

Serve as a key company spokesperson, representing the organization with clients, investors, regulatory bodies, and industry associations like the Food Processing Suppliers Association (FPSA) .

Requirements for the COO, Food Processing Technology – Minneapolis, MN

We are seeking a world-class executive with the right blend of experience, technical expertise, and leadership qualities to excel in this demanding role. The successful candidate will possess:

Education & Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Food Science, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.

A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in an operational capacity within the food processing, food manufacturing, CPG, or related technology industry.

At least 7 years of experience in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with full P&L responsibility for a significant business unit or an entire company.

Demonstrable experience successfully scaling a business, managing complex manufacturing operations, and leading large, cross-functional teams.

Skills & Competencies

Technical Acumen

Deep expertise in modern food processing technologies, manufacturing principles, automation systems, and sophisticated supply chain logistics.

Financial Acumen

Exceptional financial literacy with a proven ability to manage budgets, analyze financial statements, and use data to drive operational and strategic decisions.

Strategic Vision

The ability to think strategically at a high level while also diving into the details to ensure flawless execution.

Inspirational Leadership

A natural leader and mentor with a track record of building, motivating, and retaining high-performing teams. Possesses high emotional intelligence and excellent interpersonal skills.

Regulatory Knowledge

Comprehensive understanding of the food safety and regulatory landscape (FDA, USDA, FSMA, HACCP, SQF) is essential.

Problem-Solving

Superior analytical and problem-solving skills, with a bias for action and a data-driven approach.

Communication

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate a clear vision and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:

Executive Compensation

A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and a meaningful equity/long-term incentive package.

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

A full suite of benefits, including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.

Retirement Planning

A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.

Work-Life Balance

A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and supportive parental leave programs.

Relocation Support

A comprehensive executive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family.

Professional Growth

Ample opportunities for continued professional development, including executive coaching and attendance at key industry conferences.

Impactful Culture

The opportunity to work within a dynamic, innovative, and collaborative culture where your contributions directly shape the success and growth of the company.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is the exclusive retained search firm for this critical Chief Operating Officer position. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

If you are a proven operational leader with the experience and drive to lead a premier food processing technology company into its next phase of growth, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments.

For more executive-level opportunities in this sector, we invite you to explore our Foodtech Recruiters practice area for additional listings.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.