The Executive Director – Innovation & Automation (Process Control) is a forward-thinking executive leader responsible for driving enterprise-wide innovation in automation technologies, advanced process control systems, and digital manufacturing solutions. This role leads the development and implementation of smart manufacturing platforms, including PLC/SCADA, MES, and data-driven optimization tools, to enable operational excellence, real-time control, and scalable growth across all food and beverage production sites. The Executive Director collaborates across functions to embed innovation, intelligence, and automation into every layer of process control architecture while ensuring system reliability, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
Define and execute the company’s vision for automation, process control innovation, and smart factory evolution.
Champion the deployment of Industry 4.0 technologies, including IIoT, machine learning, advanced analytics, and AI-based control.
Develop scalable architecture strategies integrating PLC, SCADA, DCS, MES, historians, and cloud platforms across sites.
Oversee the design, configuration, and optimization of APC systems for mixing, batching, thermal processing, packaging, and utility operations.
Lead the standardization of HMI/PLC interfaces (Rockwell, Siemens, etc.) and control libraries across facilities.
Drive integration of OT and IT systems to enable seamless data flow, traceability, and closed-loop feedback control.
Spearhead digital twin modeling, predictive maintenance platforms, and AI-based process optimization tools.
Implement enterprise-level MES systems for real-time production tracking, recipe management, and performance monitoring.
Establish data governance protocols and analytics frameworks to enhance decision-making and continuous improvement.
Ensure secure-by-design architecture for all control systems in compliance with ISA/IEC 62443, NIST, and corporate policies.
Oversee system audits, validation, and change control processes for automation in regulated (FDA, USDA, FSMA) environments.
Drive fail-safe, resilient design for process control systems to minimize downtime and operational risk.
Lead and mentor a high-performance team of automation, controls, and digital engineers.
Partner with cross-functional stakeholders in operations, IT, engineering, quality, and supply chain to align innovation with business priorities.
Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and continuous learning in automation and process control domains.
Process automation strategy and control systems innovation
Digital manufacturing, IIoT, MES, and data integration
AI/ML-enabled process optimization and predictive control
Cybersecurity, compliance, and risk management in automation
Cross-functional collaboration and enterprise transformation
Standardization of platforms, tools, and automation architectures
Engineering team development and knowledge leadership
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Automation, Computer, or Chemical Engineering required
Master’s degree, MBA, or advanced technical certifications preferred
ISA/IEC 62443, PMP, or Six Sigma certifications a plus
Relevant credentials in SCADA, MES, cybersecurity, or digital transformation beneficial
15+ years of experience in automation, process control, or digital engineering roles in the food & beverage, CPG, or pharmaceutical industries
Proven success leading enterprise-wide automation strategies and complex system integrations
Deep expertise in industrial automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Wonderware), MES systems, and smart factory technologies
Visionary leadership and innovation management
Strong technical foundation in APC, PLC/HMI, data systems, and network architecture
Excellent collaboration, communication, and organizational skills
Experience managing multimillion-dollar automation programs across multiple facilities