Operations Manager-Distillery

Operations Manager-DistilleryOperations Manager is accountable for the end-to-end operational readiness, commissioning, and execution of the Lawrenceburg Wild Turkey Distillery. This role serves as the single operational integrator across engineering, operations, quality, and support functions to ensure safe and compliant operations of the Distillery.Key Responsibilities and Activities:Structured execution from commissioning governance, including system turnover, punch-list closure, and validation sign-offs, then owning the day-to-day post start-upCoordinate activities to ensure rapid stabilization of production in the DistilleryEnsure all process systems meet defined performance, safety, and quality standardsAct as the single point of operational ownership bridging engineering, production, quality, HR, and supply chain in the DistilleryCoordinate external vendors, OEMs, and contractors to ensure readiness and system validation through day-to-day productionEnsure SOPs, work instructions, and process documentation are complete and validated prior to startupBuild and execute training plans, competency matrices, and onboarding for operations teamsValidate staffing plans and organizational readiness for new capacityDrive rapid ramp-up to target throughput, yield, and efficiencyMonitor startup KPIs (safety, quality, output, reliability) and lead stabilization effortsIdentify and mitigate operational risks impacting capacity deliveryReduce startup risks, delays, and rework through centralized ownership and structured issue trackingLead daily startup governance routines (war rooms, issue logs, escalation paths)Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory (TTB), and quality standardsCollaborate with internal stakeholders (PMO, Operations, Engineering, Procurement, QRD) and external partners (e.g., Design Builder) to align project goals, timelines, and deliverablesEscalate critical decisions through defined governance paths and ensure alignment across global and local stakeholdersManage daily activities/resources to ensure maximized efficiency in the DistilleryMaintain and organize technical submittals, including engineering drawings, specifications, equipment data sheets, and validation recordsFacilitate and document meeting minutes for core project team meetings, including follow-up communicationsEnsure communication with relevant internal stakeholders on activities impacting daily operationsKey Deliverables:Achievement of Day-1 operational readiness across people, processes, and systemsRapid stabilization to planned capacity and performance targetsClosed commissioning and verification including punch list through improvement ideasDocumented and trained operating model for sustained operationsKey Relationships:Internal: Local and Regional Engineering Team, Local Site Manufacturing Team, Local HS & Sustainability Team, Local and Regional Accounting/Finance, Regional Brand House Marketing TeamExternal: Contractor PartnersQualifications / Requirements:Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related fieldExperience: 5+ years of experience in manufacturingExperience in the distilled spirits or beverage industry is required; distillation experience is preferredProven experience in operations managementStrong cross-functional leadership in complex, multi-stakeholder environments, both internal and externalExperience working in a union environment is preferredStrong understanding of processing and manufacturingKnowledge / Skills / Abilities:High proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)Strong organizational and multitasking skills with keen attention to detailKnowledge of commissioning frameworks (FAT, SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ)Familiarity with SAP, production planning, safety systems and quality systemsProven ability to work collaboratively across departments and influence at all organizational levelsExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalAbility to navigate and work on the site (outdoor), including but not limited to walking on uneven surfaces (construction site), working at heights, and working on laddersAdhere to all safety protocols and procedures to maintain a safe and compliant work environmentOur commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: At Campari Group we believe in building more value together, thus we see diversity in all forms as a source of enrichment. Our employment policies and practices ensure that we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all aspects of employment without regard to any individual's race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or characteristics or expression, political affiliation or activity, age, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.