Craig Burton
Rochester,IN
Summary
Production manager with strong background in overseeing farm production processes and ensuring operational efficiency. Proven ability to lead teams, optimize workflows, and drive productivity in fast-paced environments. Known for strategic problem-solving, adaptability, and fostering collaborative work environments. Skilled in farm production management, quality control, and resource management.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Production Manager
Black Gold Farms
06.2024 - Current
- Negotiated and built strong relationships with land partners in order to secure land rental agreements (achieved 70% of the 2025 crop for Black Gold Farms).
- Increased overall productivity by identifying bottlenecks in the production process and proposing effective solutions.
- Resolved issues quickly to maintain productivity goals.
- Managed continuous improvement initiatives to drive gains in quality, flow, and output.
- Managed internal operational standards and productivity targets.
- Implemented preventive maintenance programs for equipment, extending their lifespan and minimizing downtime due to malfunctions.
- Mentored junior staff members on best practices in production management, irrigation and farm equipment, safety protocols, cultivating a skilled workforce capable of tackling complex challenges head on (troubleshooting in the fields, etc.).
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging open communication between team members and regularly soliciting feedback on operational procedures.
- Estimated labor requirements to support anticipated workload. Currently managing 9 full time employee and 20+ temporary employees during peak seasons.
- Collaborated with management to develop solutions for workforce challenges, such as high turnover rates or low morale, ultimately creating a more stable and productive team environment.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products according to customer requirements.
Production Specialist
Black Gold Farms
10.2021 - 06.2024
- Built strong working relationships with land partners.
- Coordinated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of fertilizer, chemicals, and repairs and maintenance; avoiding costly delays in the production schedule.
- Managed continuous improvement initiatives to drive gains in quality, flow, and output.
- Maintained equipment in good working order by checking settings and operation, troubleshooting problems, and completing basic repairs. Performed general equipment maintenance and repair to minimize downtime.
- Calibrated machines to maintain required productivity levels and adherence to quality standards.
- Increased production capacity by training new employees on machinery operation and safety protocols, strengthening the overall workforce.
- Provided technical assistance to other departments as needed to troubleshoot issues.
- Met customer demand by working extra shifts and consistently exceeding production quotas.
- Followed safety procedures and guidelines to maintain safe working environments.
- Volunteered for additional assignments during peak work periods to keep tasks on schedule.
- Met production targets and tight deadlines by collaborating closely with team members.
- Collaborated with management to develop solutions for workforce challenges, such as high turnover rates or low morale, ultimately creating a more stable and productive team environment.
Farm Technician
Black Gold Farms
02.2009 - 10.2021
- Increased crop yield by implementing efficient irrigation techniques.
- Operated various types of heavy machinery such as tractors, and planters with precision to optimize fieldwork efficiency.
- Trained new employees in farm operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and best practices.
Owner/ Production Manager
Burton View Holstiens Farm
08.1984 - 02.2009
- Monitored milk production quality and quantity and evaluated daily data to address inefficiencies.
- Ensured high-quality milk by maintaining clean milking equipment and practicing proper sanitation protocols.
- Enhanced herd health through regular monitoring, vaccinations, and preventative care measures.
- Managed dairy operations for optimal efficiency with precise record-keeping and data analysis.
- Maximized pasture utilization with rotational grazing techniques, improving overall feed efficiency through total mix ration.
- Implemented cost-saving measures in feed procurement, resulting in reduced operational expenses.
- Trained farm personnel to maintain high standards of animal welfare and farm productivity.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Maintained farm equipment and vehicles.
Education
High School Diploma -
Rochester Community Schools
Rochester, IN05-1984
Skills
- Production planning
- Operations management
- Staff management
- Production scheduling
- Continuous improvements
- Team development
- Dedication to product quality
- Safety management
- Equipment operation
- Production oversight
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Maintenance planning
Timeline
Production Manager
Black Gold Farms
06.2024 - Current
Production Specialist
Black Gold Farms
10.2021 - 06.2024
Farm Technician
Black Gold Farms
02.2009 - 10.2021
Owner/ Production Manager
Burton View Holstiens Farm
08.1984 - 02.2009
High School Diploma -
Rochester Community Schools
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