Director of Operations

Graziano Brothers, Inc.

Food, Logistics, Other | Full Time | Onsite | Des Moines

Posted: 2/13/26

Job Description

We are building the next phase of operational scale and growth.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a Director of Operations to lead and scale warehousing, wholesale distribution, and supply chain operations. This executive leadership role reports directly to the CEO and plays a critical role in operational performance, profitability, and scalable expansion.
You will partner closely with leadership to align production capacity, logistics, and inventory planning with revenue growth.

We recognize the level of leadership required for this role.

Compensation includes:

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based incentive tied to operational KPIs
• Long-term opportunity within an expanding brand
• Executive visibility and direct impact on company strategy

For highly qualified candidates with proven warehousing, food production, or manufacturing leadership experience, total compensation will reflect scope, scale, and measurable impact capability.

What You’ll Own:

Operational Leadership:

• Lead warehousing, and distribution operations
• Ensure safe, compliant, and on-time operations and delivery
• Drive accountability and performance across teams
• Strategy & KPI Performance:
• Establish operational goals aligned with company growth plans
• Own KPIs including throughput, labor cost, inventory accuracy, margin performance, and service levels
• Deliver performance reporting to executive leadership
• Process Improvement & Cost Optimization:
• Improve systems, workflows, and supply chain processes
• Identify efficiency gains and cost reductions
• Solve logistics constraints with practical solutions
• Cross-Functional Leadership:
• Align operations with Sales forecasts and expansion initiatives
• Lead through growth and operational complexity


Work Environment:

• Work takes place across production, warehouse, and retail/food prep areas
• Regular exposure to refrigerated or cold environments typical of food production
• Standing and walking frequently; periodic desk and computer work
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and safely operate equipment and vehicles
• Extended hours, with flexibility as needed for operational leadership
• Occasional evenings/weekends based on production and business needs


Graziano Brothers is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Deadline to Apply 3/8/26

Address

1601 South Union Street

Experience

What We're Looking For:

• 5+ years leadership experience in warehousing, food manufacturing, distribution, or logistics
• Hands-on, solutions-oriented leader who can build team trust and drive accountability with the ability to step in where needed
• Demonstrated success driving measurable operational improvements
• Strong financial and operational acumen
• Excellent communication skills and comfort working cross-functionally

Preferred :

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, food science, or a related field
• Experience with KPI-driven operations, SOP development, and continuous improvement

We value leaders who:

• See challenges as opportunities for continuous improvement
• Lead with accountability and urgency
• Can balance long-term strategy with daily operational execution

Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package.

About the Company

For more than 113 years, Graziano Brothers has been a cornerstone of the Des Moines community. As a fourth-generation, family-owned business, we are renowned for producing fresh Italian sausage and delivering premium Italian products to both retail and wholesale partners.

Our operations include:

• Food manufacturing and sausage production
• Wholesale distribution and logistics
• Warehousing and inventory management
• Italian specialty retail

We proudly serve the Des Moines metro and beyond. Our wholesale customers include grocery stores, restaurants, brokerages, eateries, and bars who rely on the consistency and reputation of our proprietary products.

Why Join Graziano Brothers?

• Established and respected Des Moines brand
• Executive-level impact and visibility
• Growth-focused expansion opportunity
• Family-owned culture with strong community roots
• Opportunity to scale a legacy Iowa business into its next generation

Travel Required

Yes, as needed for business

Resume Required

Yes

Contact Person

Layna Shields

Deadline to Apply 3/8/26

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