Unit Operations Leader

IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health and biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.

Food Ingredients: Innovating improved nutritional profiles, better taste and texture, and greater cost efficiency to meet the needs of global food and beverage manufacturers.

The Unit Operations Leader role is based in Memphis, Tennessee (onsite role). Be part of a collaborative, results-driven, and growth-oriented team where together we can achieve meaningful impact and operational excellence.

Your potential is our inspiration!

Where You'll Make a Difference

• Lead daily manufacturing operations for assigned production unit(s), ensuring alignment with safety, quality, cost, and production volume targets
• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational performance, including cost efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement outcomes
• Drive a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety, health, environmental, and Process Safety Management standards
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Root Cause Failure Analysis methodologies to identify trends, solve problems, and eliminate process inefficiencies
• Partner with site leadership and supply chain teams to coordinate production schedules and align with customer demand
• Manage operating budgets, including planning, tracking, and reporting of fixed and variable costs
• Lead performance management processes, including goal setting, performance evaluation, coaching, and development of team members
• Establish clear priorities, reinforce accountability, and maintain operational discipline across the production unit
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and quality standards, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point, Good Manufacturing Practices, sanitation, and pest control programs

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, or related technical discipline) or equivalent experience
• Approximately eight or more years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Experience managing budgets and understanding fixed and variable cost structures
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment utilization, and operational systems
• Demonstrated experience leading safety programs, audits, and promoting safe work behaviors
• Experience with Process Safety Management and continuous improvement practices
• Experience using Root Cause Failure Analysis or similar structured problem-solving methodologies
• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams

How Would You Stand Out?

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
• Experience leading Lean Manufacturing initiatives at scale
• Proven success in driving culture transformation focused on safety, engagement, and accountability

Why Choose Us?

• Opportunity to lead high-impact manufacturing operations in a large production facility

• Collaborative, inclusive team environment focused on continuous improvement
• Access to ongoing professional development and technical training
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on products used around the world

For your awareness, IFF has announced its intention to sell its Food Ingredients Business to CVC Capital Partners. The sale is currently expected to close in the first half of 2027, pending regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

The Food Ingredient business unit will remain part of IFF until close and, at such time, will transition to CVC Capital Partners. By applying for this position, candidates acknowledge awareness that the role is part of the Food Ingredient business unit and has been identified to transition to CVC Capital Partners.