External Manufacturing Lead

KraftHeinz

Chicago, IL, United States
Base: $141,500.00 - $176,900.00; bonus/equity: per...
External manufacturer performance management
Food safety and regulatory compliance
Commercial agreement negotiation
The Lead, External Manufacturing is accountable for end-to-end performance of a domestic network of co-manufacturers/co-packers supporting the Meat, Cheese, Coffee, and Snacks business unit

Job Summary

  • The Lead, External Manufacturing is accountable for end-to-end performance of a domestic network of co-manufacturers/co-packers supporting the Meat, Cheese, Coffee, and Snacks business unit.
  • The role drives excellence across safety, quality, service, and efficiency while partnering with Procurement, Legal, and Finance to manage agreements, financials, and operational performance.
  • Kraft Heinz offers a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs supporting employee wellbeing including healthcare, financial benefits, and work-life balance initiatives.

Matching Summary

The Lead, External Manufacturing is accountable for end-to-end performance of a domestic network of co-manufacturers/co-packers supporting the Meat, Cheese, Coffee, and Snacks business unit.

Salary

Base: $141,500.00 - $176,900.00; Bonus/Equity: Performance-based bonus eligible; Benefits: Healthcare, wellbeing programs, financial and family support benefits

Skills & Requirements

Must-have

  • external manufacturer performance management
  • food safety and regulatory compliance
  • commercial agreement negotiation
  • capacity and production planning
  • Lean and Six Sigma continuous improvement
  • cross-functional leadership and communication

Nice-to-have

  • experience with commercialization at external sites
  • ability to manage financials and cost variances
  • comfortable with plant environments
  • frequent travel capability
  • strong prioritization skills

Key Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Supply Chain or related field
  • 8–10 years operations or supply chain experience
  • experience working with external manufacturers
  • strong knowledge of food safety and regulatory requirements
  • experience leading commercialization and technical transfers
  • comfortable with 25–50% travel

Work Rights

Not specified

Tailored Resume

Cover Letter