Pomona, CA | Full-Time | $109,450 $128,600 + BonusFood ManufacturingAbout the CompanyOur client is a growing, mission-driven candy brand focused on creating products that work for customers, partners, and the business. As we scale, we?re seeking a highly capable operational leader to help turn vision into execution across the company.The RoleWe are hiring a Manager of Operations to serve as the CEO?s primary execution partner and integrator. This role is ideal for a proactive, system-minded operator who thrives on ownership, accountability, and building structure in a fast-moving organization.You will oversee core operational functions, translate strategy into action, and ensure the business runs efficiently day to day while continuously improving how we operate.This is a senior leadership role reporting directly to the CEO.What You?ll DoOperational Leadership & ExecutionOwn day-to-day operations across key functions, including operations, vendors, sales administration, marketing administration, and related areasBuild, optimize, and document systems, workflows, and SOPs that remove ambiguity and improve performanceEstablish KPIs, dashboards, and operating rhythms (monthly/quarterly) to drive accountability and resultsEnsure strategic priorities are executed consistently across the organizationCEO PartnershipAct as the CEO?s first path to action turning ideas into operational realityAnticipate operational gaps and resolve issues before they escalateIncrease the CEO?s leverage by owning execution and follow-through on key initiativesPartner on priority-setting and resource allocation aligned with market and internal needsTeam Leadership & Cross-Functional CoordinationLead key initiatives and ensure teammates have clear, measurable goalsFoster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and accountabilityImprove communication and coordination across departmentsModel direct, transparent, and respectful leadershipFinancial & Resource ManagementPartner with finance on budgeting, forecasting, expense control, and resource planningMaximize ROI and recommend cost-control or efficiency opportunitiesEnsure operational decisions support growth and profitabilityVendor & Business OperationsManage and optimize vendor relationships for core products and servicesOversee inventory planning and forecasting for existing and new SKUsLead vendor reviews, negotiations, onboarding, and transitions as neededPartner with QC to support compliance and risk management effortsSales Operations, Data, & ToolsOversee sales administration and performance reportingServe as a liaison between the CEO and sales leadership on metrics and resultsEnsure sales teams and brokers are aligned on product knowledge, pricing, and updatesOversee third-party tools and platforms supporting sales, certifications, and promotionsAnalyze syndicated (Spins) and internal data to inform sales, marketing, and operations strategyMarketing SupportAssess current marketing efforts and recommend clear prioritiesCollaborate with leadership to align marketing execution with business goalsWho You AreBachelor?s degree requiredAn operator at heart you love systems, process, and executionA builder who enjoys creating structure where none existsStrategic and hands-on, equally comfortable in leadership discussions and day-to-day detailsA natural CEO multiplier who amplifies leadership impactA direct, confident communicator who can create clarity and accountabilityHigh ownership mindset you default to action and problem-solvingExperience scaling startups, leading cross-functional teams, or owning P&L is a strong plusWhat Success Looks LikeWithin your first 6 12 months, you will have:Strengthened operating systems that allow the CEO to focus on high-leverage workIncreased efficiency, clarity, and execution velocity company-wideBuilt a stable operational foundation through metrics, reporting, and budgetingFully owned operations, enabling leadership to focus on sales and growthKey initiatives may include:Launching 1 2 new SKUs, fully sellable in the U.S. before Q3Supporting sales teams in exceeding revenue and expense targets through compelling, data-driven insightsHelping shape and prioritize marketing initiatives that materially impact growthCompensation & BenefitsBase salary: $109,450 $128,600 (DOE) plus bonusPerformance-based bonuses tied to revenue growth and expense optimization90% health insurance coverage100% dental coverage401(k) with up to 4% employer match (after 1 year)3 weeks PTOImportant NoteThis opportunity is being managed by Bright Talent. Bright Talent is not the employer of record for this position.*The salary range provided in this job posting may vary based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, qualifications, location, and the specific needs of the company. The stated range is not a guarantee of compensation, and the employer reserves the right to modify or change it at any time. Final compensation will be determined through discussions with the candidate and will be formalized in the offer letter.