At Woodland Gourmet, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a culture that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous growth. Our team members are encouraged and empowered to take on challenges, contribute their unique perspectives, and develop their careers. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where every individual’s contribution is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain focused on fostering an atmosphere of learning, respect, and teamwork.

Woodland Gourmet

Since 1989, Woodland Foods has been a trusted source of inspiration for food lovers worldwide. Rooted in authenticity and global culinary exploration, we are dedicated to providing globally inspired specialty ingredients that enhance culinary experiences. Our mission is to partner with customers who share our passion for authentic food solutions, focusing on Collaborative Innovation, Product Diversity, and Agile Operations. With our seasoned team, we craft innovative food experiences by exploring gourmet ingredients and unique flavors.

In December 2021, Woodland Foods was acquired by Graham Partners, a private investment firm committed to growing businesses with strong technological, manufacturing, and product development capabilities.

Idan Foods

Established in 1978, Idan Foods is renowned for its expertise in fried chicken breading, seasoning, baking mixes, and packaging. Specializing in creating unique textures, flavors, and spices, Idan is dedicated to helping customers build their own brand identities. From research and development to packaging and shipping, Idan takes pride in providing exceptional customer service, ensuring each product meets the highest standards. Idan Foods joined the Woodland Gourmet family in April 2024, bringing its expertise in custom food formulation and blending services to our growing portfolio.

Sevillo Fine Foods

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sevillo Fine Foods focuses on producing all-natural, ready-to-eat frozen products designed to save time and labor in the kitchen. With an emphasis on fire-roasted vegetables, slow-roasted tomatoes, spreads, and sauces, Sevillo elevates menus with value-added solutions. The integration of Sevillo with Woodland Gourmet, finalized in March 2025, opens up significant cross-selling opportunities, particularly in the food service distribution channel. This strategic acquisition strengthens our position in the retail and industrial markets while enhancing our capabilities in creating tailored culinary solutions.

Graham Partners

Graham Partners, founded in 1988, is a private investment firm focused on businesses with proprietary technologies, advanced manufacturing expertise, and strong growth potential. With over 110 acquisitions and investments, Graham Partners has a long history of backing companies in the food and consumer technology sectors, including Woodland Gourmet, Commercial Bakeries, Giraffe Food, and more. With significant industry experience and access to extensive operational resources, Graham Partners is a key driver in Woodland Gourmet's growth and success.

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Plant Manager - International Spices

United States

Full Time

Manager/Supervisor

Title: Plant Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: Fremont, Nebraska
Reports To: Business Unit President
Department: Manufacturing Operations

SUMMARY:
The Plant Manager is responsible for the full leadership, operational performance, and strategic direction of the food production facility. This role ensures the plant operates safely, delivers high-quality products, meets customer demands, and achieves financial and operational goals. The Plant Manager drives a strong food safety culture, fosters continuous improvement, and builds a high performing, engaged workforce aligned with the company's values and customer expectations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversee all plant functions including Production, Production Scheduling, Maintenance, and Sanitation.
Ensure full compliance with food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, SQF, FDA) and internal company standards.
Lead development and execution of plant operational plans to achieve safety, quality, service, financial, and environmental targets.
Develop, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) across safety, production efficiency, and product quality.
Drive technological advancements and automation within the plant to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality.
Lead operational excellence initiatives through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement frame fostering a culture of accountability and food safety, at all organizational levels.
Manage plant budgeting and forecasting, ensuring strong cost control.
Champion employee engagement and talent development; promote leadership development and succession planning to ensure a well-prepared team for future challenges building a strong leadership pipeline within the plant.
Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D and Commercial teams to support innovation and customer satisfaction.
Ensure readiness for customers, regulatory, and third-party audits and manage corrective action plans.
Represent the plant in internal leadership discussions, customer relationships, and regulatory agencies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Business Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Experience:

10+ years of experience in manufacturing leadership roles within the food production industry, including at least 5 years in a senior plant management position.

Skills & Knowledge:

In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
Strong track record of successfully leading production operations with a commitment to safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
Experience managing budgets, projects, and plant planning.
Proven leadership abilities with strong communication, team-building, and change management skills.
Expertise in continuous improvement, Lean Manufacturing, and/or Six Sigma practices.

Preferred Skills:

HACCP, PCQI, SQF, TPM, Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or other relevant certifications.
Experience with NetSuite ERP system, or similar.
Bilingual skills in English and Spanish, and experience leading multi-cultural workforces.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are those an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This position does not allow for remote work.

Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility
Frequently required to lift up to 55 pounds (anything over 55 lbs, team lift)
Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces

Personal Protective Equipment
The performance of this position requires exposure to the manufacturing and warehouse areas, which under certain conditions may require the use of personal protective equipment.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Works in a manufacturing environment
Exposure to dust, odors, and noise

This document does not state or imply that these are the only duties the employee is required to perform in this position.

Our benefits program is designed to support our team in leading healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. We deeply value the contributions of our team members and are committed to offering a competitive total compensation package. Additionally, we offer medical, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays and paid time off.

Woodland Gourmet is a participant in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. For more information on E-Verify and your rights, please visit the E-Verify website.

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