Operations Manager

*THIS IS NOT A JOB AT FORCEBRANDS***This is an operations-led innovation role, not a product development or brand marketing position.**We are partnering with a premium, global consumer packaged goods brand to hire an Operations Manager focused on building and scaling new product platforms beyond their core portfolio. This role sits at the intersection of innovation, supply chain, and external manufacturing, bringing new product concepts to life through a network of co-manufacturing partners.The RoleThis individual will lead the execution of commercialization across new product formats (e.g., snacks, functional foods, adjacent categories), owning the commercialization process from concept through production.You’ll act as the key liaison between internal stakeholders and external manufacturing partners, ensuring products are delivered on time, on spec, and on budget.Key ResponsibilitiesLead end-to-end commercialization of new product innovations across non-core categoriesManage day-to-day operations with co-manufacturers (co-packers), ensuring performance against KPIs (OTIF, cost, quality)Oversee production planning, inventory management, and supply coordination to support launches and ongoing demandServe as the primary point of contact for external partners, including performance management and contract alignmentPartner cross-functionally with R&D, marketing, and supply chain to bring new products to marketDrive continuous improvement initiatives across external manufacturing network (Lean, root cause analysis, process optimization)Candidate Profile5+ years of experience in CPG across external manufacturing, supply chain, operations, or commercializationDirect experience managing co-manufacturers / co-packers strongly preferredProven track record supporting new product launches or innovation pipelinesStrong systems proficiency (SAP or similar ERP; Excel for planning/analysis)Familiarity with Lean methodologies, quality systems, and operational KPIsHighly collaborative, with the ability to influence cross-functional and external stakeholdersComfortable operating in ambiguity and building processes from scratchWhy This RoleOpportunity to build and scale entirely new product verticals within an established global brandHigh visibility role with direct impact on innovation strategy and growthBlend of strategic ownership and hands-on execution