The Executive Director of Food Process Equipment & Utilities is a senior leader responsible for the strategic oversight, design, and optimization of process equipment systems and utility infrastructure across the organization’s food and beverage manufacturing network. This role ensures robust equipment performance, energy-efficient utilities, and scalable systems to support production reliability, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. The Executive Director partners cross-functionally to drive innovation, lifecycle management, and standardization in equipment and utility systems that align with long-term operational and business objectives.
Develop and execute the long-term strategy for food process equipment and plant utilities across multiple manufacturing locations.
Direct lifecycle planning for major systems, including equipment selection, design standards, commissioning, and end-of-life strategies.
Champion technology standardization across sites to improve reliability, maintainability, and cost efficiency.
Oversee the specification, design, and integration of complex food processing and packaging equipment.
Drive equipment-centered continuous improvement programs focusing on OEE, throughput, and yield optimization.
Lead initiatives in hygienic design, CIP/SIP systems, and mechanical integrity to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance.
Provide strategic direction for utilities systems (e.g., steam, compressed air, HVAC, refrigeration, water, and wastewater treatment).
Drive improvements in energy and water efficiency, emissions reduction, and system resiliency.
Lead planning and execution of infrastructure upgrades and expansions to support business growth and sustainability goals.
Collaborate closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, EH&S, and Supply Chain to align equipment and utility systems with operational needs.
Engage with OEMs, EPCs, and engineering partners to source, validate, and implement cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
Participate in capital project governance, providing technical leadership from concept through commissioning.
Ensure adherence to applicable food safety (FDA, USDA, FSMA), environmental, and occupational safety regulations.
Oversee risk assessments, root cause analyses, and mitigation planning for equipment and utility-related incidents.
Lead sustainability initiatives targeting decarbonization, water conservation, and energy management across utility systems.
Strategic leadership in process equipment and utility systems
Capital project execution and equipment lifecycle management
Utility optimization, energy efficiency, and sustainability
Regulatory compliance and hygienic design standards
Multi-site systems standardization and technology alignment
Cross-functional and supplier collaboration
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Electrical Engineering required
Master’s degree or MBA preferred
Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or Six Sigma certifications a plus
HACCP, PCQI, or related food safety certifications beneficial
15+ years of progressive leadership in process equipment, utilities, or facility engineering roles in the food & beverage, CPG, or pharmaceutical industry
Demonstrated success in leading large-scale utility and equipment projects across multiple manufacturing sites
Expertise in utility infrastructure, sustainability systems, and hygienic equipment design
Executive-level strategic planning and cross-functional influence
In-depth understanding of process equipment technologies, plant utilities, and regulatory requirements
Strong project management, budgeting, and vendor negotiation skills
Effective leadership and team development capabilities across technical disciplines