Sales And Operations Manager

Sales And Operations Manager

The Sales and Operations Manager will lead Cream of the West's sales initiatives to grow our market presence while managing daily operations and ensuring food safety compliance. This multifaceted role combines strategic sales leadership, operational oversight, and food safety coordination, requiring a versatile leader who can multitask, problem-solve, and align teams with our commitment to organic, whole grain excellence. You'll work closely with our family-led team to expand our brand, streamline production, and uphold the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Leadership (Primary Focus): Develop and execute a sales strategy to expand Cream of the West's presence in regional and national markets, targeting health-conscious consumers, retailers, and distributors. Manage daily sales activities, including purchase order coordination, invoice approvals, and customer relationship building at trade shows like Newtopia Now. Drive direct-to-consumer and B2B sales through e-commerce, farmers' markets, and partnerships, promoting our hot cereals and pancake mixes. Track and report sales metrics to ownership, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

Operational Management: Oversee daily operations, including production scheduling, staff coverage, inventory management, and shipping schedules to ensure efficient workflow. Supervise production and office staff, fostering clear roles, accountability, and a collaborative culture aligned with our mission. Work with staff and owners to troubleshoot operational issues, such as supply chain or equipment challenges, and assist in production tasks (e.g., boxing) as needed. Coordinate with ownership and department leads to streamline processes, manage budgets, and support the ongoing transition to 100% organic production.

Food Safety and Compliance: Maintain and update food safety programs, ensuring compliance with FDA, GMP, Organic, and third-party audit standards (e.g., Regenerative Organic Certified). Manage documentation, including sanitation logs, lot tracking, and audit records, to ensure audit readiness and regulatory compliance. Conduct internal audits, lead mock recalls, and train staff on good manufacturing practices (GMPs), allergen controls, and sanitation protocols. Collaborate with operations to investigate customer complaints and implement corrective actions to uphold product quality.

Key Tasks & Duties

Develop and monitor sales performance metrics, coordinating purchase orders with production and sales teams. Manage production schedules, inventory reports, and shipping logistics, approving invoices and ensuring order fulfillment. Maintain accurate food safety records, including lot tracking and audit documentation, and prepare for third-party audits. Lead staff training on food safety, operational procedures, and sales strategies, supporting onboarding of new team members. Participate in internal meetings with ownership, sales, and production teams to align on goals and report key metrics. Uphold safety and sanitation standards across the facility, filling in for production tasks as needed. Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in sales, operations, and food safety processes.

Who We're Looking For

3+ years of experience in sales, preferably in CPG or food industry, with a proven track record of driving growth. 2+ years in operations management or food safety coordination, ideally in a food production environment. Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, GMPs) and experience with audit preparation. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to manage teams and coordinate across departments. Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, balancing sales, operations, and compliance responsibilities. Familiarity with inventory systems (e.g., SOS), QuickBooks Online, and production planning is preferred. Passion for organic foods, regenerative agriculture, and Cream of the West's mission to promote wholesome eating. Must be based in or willing to relocate to Harlowton, Montana, with occasional travel for trade shows.

Why Join Us?

Lead sales initiatives to grow a Montana legacy brand nationally, supported by a passionate family team. Play a pivotal role in a family-owned business driving the transition to organic, whole grain food production. Work in the heart of Montana's Big Sky Country, contributing to a mission that nourishes people and supports regenerative agriculture. Enjoy a competitive salary and the opportunity to shape a growing brand with high-quality products.