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VSM-Starburst

USA-Texas-WacoFull-timePosted Oct 30, 2026

Job description

Job Description: PURPOSE OF ROLE : The Value Stream Manager leads and integrates the efforts of operating teams across multiple shifts to insure that quality products are safely manufactured in sanitary conditions. The Value Stream Manager is responsible for efficiently and effectively managing the area within cost goals and produce sufficient quantities to meet our customer’s demands with engaged associates.

The Value Stream Manager will also provide leadership and motivation on Strategy, IBO’s, FMOS, and Associate Development. As required, the Value Stream Manager will act as the sole authority over all area / value stream assets and activities during periods of Plant Manager absence. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES : Conversion

  • Manage the efforts of operating teams of multiple lines or technologies within a value stream across multiple shifts in the efficient conversion of materials into quality products in a safe, secure and sanitary manner within the product design specifications and budgets. Directly and indirectly manage a cross-functional team in the overall operation of the value stream, including Activity Management, Capacity Planning, Machine rates, Maintenance and Engineering projects, Research and Development improvements, and Scheduling. MARS Operating System – Advocate and actively support the site Operating System. Participate in value stream information flow and escalation processes as required. Proactively participate and coach direct reports and others in value stream in delivery of all six sections of the Operating System Change Agent
  • Recommend and implement changes in methods, equipment, systems and organization, as needed, to assure that the objectives of the area are met. Deliver area requirements by influencing and gaining co-operation from other departments (Engineering, Quality Services, Commercial and Scheduling/Logistics). Associate Advocacy
  • Proactively manage associate relations issues; guide and direct the hiring, training, retraining, development and motivation of Operations associates following team working principles with a minimum degree of guidance from the Plant Manager. Drive Associate engagement through a foundation of teamwork and individual accountability. Gallup scores will be the criteria of choice for assuring consistency from site to site. Food Safety and Product Quality – Assure the ongoing production of safe and defect free products consistent with the principles of Mars. HACCP proficiency is required; this manager owns ongoing training and championing of quality goals and improvements at the area level. Goal Setting and Measurement
  • Utilizing Operations teams, establish area performance standards and goals based on site goals and strategies; measure, control, take corrective action and report results as appropriate in all areas of responsibility. Annually assist in development of area budgets and KPI targets. Troubleshooting
  • Manage/guide the technical area coverage resources for the troubleshooting and repair of process/packaging equipment problems, with the objective of effectively utilizing these resources to achieve desired performance levels. Communications
  • Ensure that open communications are established and that opportunities to broaden the scope and responsibility of Operations teams/associates are undertaken. The Area Manager is the key resource to deliver regular business performance updates. Technology Advancement
  • Advise the Plant Manager when opportunities exist for moving the area forward in technological change. Recommend improvements, which would result in new and improved equipment and or methods to minimize production costs and improve quality. Area Strategy
  • Participate with the Plant Manager and other Operations support associates in the implementation of short and long term improvement strategies that will enable more effective and efficient Value Stream performance. Value Stream Strategy – Participate with other managers in Planning, Sourcing, Delivery, Engineering, and Strategic business roles in the development and implementation of continuous improvement strategies that will drive the overall supply pipeline. Associate Development
  • With the support and participation of the site leadership team, evaluate exempt and non-exempt associate performance. In conjunction with associates’ career goals, create development plans to challenge their potential. Personal Development
  • Keep abreast of managerial and technical competencies both within and outside Mars Chocolate NA. Proactively seek opportunities and incorporate into annual development plans. Site Management – The incumbent of this position must be prepared to act on behalf of the Plant Manager in his/her absence, i.e., protection of human and physical assets, Crisis Management, conducting Staff Meetings, address public relations issues, etc. OPERATING ENVIRONMENT AND GUIDANCE : The Value Stream Manager has a working knowledge of all site specific and business policies such as Quality policy, Quality goals and objectives, Safety policy, Business objectives, etc. The Value Stream Manager sets the example for supporting site and business policies, dependability, responsibility, adaptability and appropriate conduct for a safe and productive working environment. DECISION MAKING AUTHORITY :
  • Develop strategies to insure that Areas of responsibility delivers their part of the overall site strategy
  • How to staff and manage area with labor budgets ranging from $5-$30MM
  • Drive operating rate improvements using teams and Lean tools affecting total area budgets ranging from $10-30MM
  • Determine strategy to optimally achieve production schedule and pack mix.
  • When to utilize temporary associates in conjunction with the Staffing Plan
  • Recognize and develop talent with their teams through special assignments and projects
  • Area budget planning affecting $10-25MM spend decisions
  • Actions to be taken as associate in charge during emergency or unusual situations with responsibility for 50-150 associates and assets of $25-150MM as well as community and environment impact
  • Help deliver Food Safety and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) that protect brands worth as much as $1Billion dollars Recommendations:
  • Standard Production Rates
  • Automation Opportunities
  • Equipment Replacement
  • Technology / Asset Changes
  • Area Operations Strategy
  • Labor strategies and associate moves / assignments
  • Waste targets and improvement plans
  • Operating System Changes
  • Associate development objectives and performance assessments
  • Disciplinary action KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS : Must have previous supervisory experience and a demonstrated ability and desire to work with people, both individuals as well as in teams. Must have a working knowledge of Mars Inc. operating policies, Food and Drug Laws, OSHA requirements, EEO and Wage and Hour Laws, etc. Should have a broad understanding of major functions within the plant and the ability to work directly with individuals at all levels and functions. Must possess an understanding of lean manufacturing techniques and philosophies, as well as a thorough knowledge of the MARS Operating System and all its components. COMPETENCIES Functional Effectiveness Leadership Communication (Presentation/Written/Verbal) Integrity and Trust Practices Breakthrough Thinking Lean Manufacturing (Tools/Critical Thinking/Problem Solving/Operating System) Building Effective Teams Engages Associates Associate Well-Being and Engagement Motivating Others Develops Talent Technical Skills Developing Direct Reports Navigates Complete Challenges Food Safety and Product Quality Managing and Measuring Work Creates Collaborative Relationships Personnel Policies and Practices Drive for Results Delivers Consistent Results Associate Learning, Development, and Performance Managing Vision and Purpose EDUCATION: An undergraduate degree or equivalent preferably in one of the engineering, basic sciences or business-related disciplines is highly desirable. MINIMUM EXPERIENCE: At least 6 years total business experience with at least 5 years managerial experience is very desirable. Thorough technical knowledge of process, equipment, controls and products. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of human relations skills, principles and team building processes. Good communications skills. PEOPLE MANAGEMENT : Direct
  • 6-12 associates Indirect
  • 30- 120 associates

Description copied from Mars's careers page. Read the full posting before you apply.

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