Restaurant Director of Operations jobs in Ontario

Company Overview

Mexican Corn Products is a rapidly growing Ottawa-based food manufacturer and market leader in authentic tortilla chips, built on a family recipe inspired by generations of Mexican culinary tradition. With more than 20 years of experience, the company has earned a strong reputation for quality, authenticity, and reliability through its wholesale, private-label, and house-brand offerings. Operating from a fully integrated local production facility, Mexican Corn Products combines entrepreneurial values with manufacturing scale, serving retail and restaurant customers with a commitment to food safety, operational excellence, and long-term customer partnerships.

Position Summary

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing Mexican Corn Products Inc.’s daily operations and driving operational excellence across manufacturing and production through advanced technical knowledge and strong leadership. Working in close partnership with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the COO provides strategic guidance, supervises key operational personnel, and ensures that all operational activities align with company goals for quality, efficiency, innovation, and growth.

This role combines executive operations leadership with hands-on technical and engineering oversight, including production optimization, product development, maintenance systems, and strategic expansion initiatives.

Why Join Us?

Mexican Corn Products offers a leadership opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a growing and respected food manufacturer with a strong entrepreneurial culture. As COO, you will play a central role in shaping operational strategy, enhancing manufacturing performance, supporting innovation, and contributing directly to the company’s long-term growth.

· Salary - $175,000 to $225,000

· Bonus opportunity

Key Responsibilities

Operations Leadership

· Provide direct supervision to the Plant Manager, Maintenance Supervisor, and, jointly with the CEO, the Administrative Assistant.

· Monitor daily production schedules and performance, ensuring consistency with operational targets.

· Coordinate operations, logistics, and procurement to optimize resources and workflow.

· Lead cost efficiency initiatives and support production scheduling and operational adjustments.

Manufacturing Oversight & Quality

· Inspect operations to ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and internal standards.

· Identify and address operational deviations, initiating corrective measures where required.

· Collaborate with the Plant Manager to enhance procedures and drive continuous improvement.

· Ensure production processes are conducted efficiently and safely.

Product Development & Pricing

· Lead the development of new products and formulations, assessing the operational feasibility of client requests.

· Develop and maintain pricing models, monitor margins, and recommend adjustments as needed.

· Collaborate with the sales broker to assess and launch new product opportunities.

Technical & Engineering Leadership

· Design and develop production lines and automation projects to enhance productivity.

· Develop, modify, and oversee the installation of machinery and fabrication projects.

· Establish preventive maintenance systems and supervise the Maintenance Supervisor and technical staff.

· Hire and manage engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.

· Manage technical and engineering projects through government support programs such as SHRED and IRAP.

Strategic Planning & Business Growth

· Collaborate closely with the CEO on strategic planning, operational projections, and business development initiatives.

· Evaluate, recommend, and implement new business opportunities and operational expansions.

Reporting Structure

The COO works in partnership with the CEO and provides leadership across core operational functions, including direct oversight of the Plant Manager and Maintenance Supervisor, as well as shared supervision of the Administrative Assistant. The role also leads engineers, technicians, and technical project teams as required.

Qualifications & Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.

· 10–15+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, preferably in manufacturing or production environments.

· Proven expertise in process improvement, quality standards, and technical project management.

· Strong track record in product development, pricing, and operational efficiency.

· Experience with government programs such as SHRED and IRAP is an asset.

· Exceptional communication, analytical, and leadership skills.

Core Competencies

· Strategic thinking, planning, and execution.

· Operational and technical acumen with a focus on process optimization.

· Leadership and talent development.

· Cost management.

· Collaborative mindset.

If you have the qualifications for this role, please forward your resume for consideration.

Mexican Corn Products, Inc. welcomes and encourages applications from all diversities and backgrounds. Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Artificial intelligence may be utilized as part of the selection process.

We thank all who apply; however, only those most closely matching these requirements will be contacted for an interview. Please do not contact the company directly.

Pay: $175,000.00-$225,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• On-site parking

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree (required)

Experience:

• Food industry: 5 years (preferred)
• Manufacturing Management: 10 years (required)

Language:

• Excellent English (required)

Work Location: In person