Vice President of Manufacturing & Process Development

Vice President of Manufacturing & Process Development

Position Summary
Deiorio Foods, Inc. is seeking a senior, plant-focused Product Developer to lead the formulation and commercialization of yeast-leavened dough systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment. This role bridges research and development and operations, with a focus on fermentation control, flour functionality, enzyme systems, and real-world production performance.

This is a hands-on role that requires time on the production floor to ensure products are scalable, consistent, and efficient in a manufacturing setting.

Key Responsibilities

Dough and Fermentation Development

• Design and optimize yeast-leavened dough systems (fresh, par-baked, frozen)
• Manage fermentation performance including proofing behavior and gas retention
• Troubleshoot frozen dough stability and baking performance

Flour and Ingredient Functionality

• Manage flour variability across suppliers and seasonal changes
• Optimize protein levels and gluten development
• Evaluate enzyme systems for consistency, shelf life, and performance

Plant Integration and Line Optimization

• Work directly with operations on the production floor
• Troubleshoot issues such as stickiness, tearing, shrinkage, and variability
• Translate technical solutions into practical, operator-friendly processes

Commercialization and Scale-Up

• Lead plant trials and production start-ups
• Partner with procurement on ingredient specifications
• Ensure products meet cost, yield, and throughput targets

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate with R&D, QA, Operations, and Sales
• Train plant personnel on new products and processes
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

• 815+ years of experience in bakery, pizza, or yeast-leavened dough systems (industrial scale required)
• Strong expertise in fermentation, frozen dough systems, flour functionality, and enzyme systems
• Hands-on plant experience required
• Strong understanding of mixing, sheeting, proofing, freezing, and baking systems
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Compensation and Benefits
Salary starting at $175,000 annually, based on experience

Benefits include:

• Medical insurance (eligible after 90 days)
• Paid Family Leave
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid Time Off
• Sick time
• Life insurance
• Paid holidays

Work Schedule
Monday Friday
8:00 AM 4:30 PM
May include travel for trade shows and customer visits

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Deiorio Foods, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.