James Lipman
Chico,CA
Summary
Results-driven Chief Operating Officer drives performance improvements and leads strategic initiatives. Skilled manager of cross-departmental activities with adaptive communication of organizational objectives. Develops and executes innovative strategies for stimulating growth and service quality.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief Operating Officer
California Olive Ranch
05.2022 - Current
- Oversaw day-to-day operations across multiple departments, ensuring timely delivery of projects and streamlined workflows.
- Guided teams through periods of significant change by providing clear communication and decisive leadership during transitions.
- Negotiated favorable vendor contracts for cost-effective procurement solutions that supported business growth objectives.
- Mentored team members by sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and providing constructive feedback; fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the organization.
- Managed crisis response to minimize potential negative impacts on company.
Executive Vice President of Ag and Technical Services
California Olive Ranch
01.2018 - 05.2022
- Achieved company growth by implementing strategic initiatives and fostering collaboration across departments.
- Negotiated favorable terms on scontracts with suppliers and customers alike, resulting in significant cost savings for the organization over time.
- Assembled team of vice president-level leaders to grow business and develop group.
VP of Technical Services and Strategic Sourcing
California Olive Ranch
06.2017 - 01.2018
- Developed international relationships to procure EVOO to supply 50% of sales in Italy, Argentina, Chile, Portugal and Peru.
VP of Production and Milling Operations
California Olive Ranch
01.2011 - 06.2017
- Optimized supply chain management processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing strategic solutions that increased overall efficiency.
- Cultivated a high-performance culture within the organization by setting clear expectations for employees at all levels, providing regular feedback, and recognizing achievement.
- Oversaw business-wide changes to modernize procedures and organization.
Vice President Operations
Tulocay & Company, Inc.
05.2006 - 01.2011
- Responsible for the comprehensive operational management of this 60 employee gourmet food manufacturing and marketing company experiencing 100% annual growth in revenues.
Purchasing / General Manager
Tulocay & Company, Inc.
01.2000 - 05.2006
Food Safety Scientist Research and Development
Tanimura & Antle, Inc.
07.1997 - 01.2000
- Developed, implemented and managed systems affecting planting, growing, harvesting, and processing to improve quality, extend shelf-life and improve marketability and profits for this $214 million multinational producer and grower of fresh cut produce.
Quality Assurance Manager
Green Garden Foods, Inc
01.1995 - 07.1997
- Responsible for the quality and food safety for the manufacturing of retail and food service dressings, sauces, deli style salads and potato processing food processor.
Microbiologist
Green Garden Foods, Inc
08.1994 - 01.1995
Education
Bachelor of Science - Food Sciences And Technology
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo06.1994
Skills
- Strategic Planning
- Operations Oversight
- Personnel development
- Process Improvement
- Operations Management
- Executive Leadership
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Leadership and People Development
Professional Experience
Board Member Olive Oil Commission of California 2014-Present
Board Member California League of Food Producers, Chair 2022-2023
Board Member American Olive Olive Oil Producers Association, Chair 2020- Present
Cal-Poly SLO Food Science & Nutrition Advisory Council member 2021-Present
Timeline
Chief Operating Officer
California Olive Ranch
05.2022 - Current
Executive Vice President of Ag and Technical Services
California Olive Ranch
01.2018 - 05.2022
VP of Technical Services and Strategic Sourcing
California Olive Ranch
06.2017 - 01.2018
VP of Production and Milling Operations
California Olive Ranch
01.2011 - 06.2017
Vice President Operations
Tulocay & Company, Inc.
05.2006 - 01.2011
Purchasing / General Manager
Tulocay & Company, Inc.
01.2000 - 05.2006
Food Safety Scientist Research and Development
Tanimura & Antle, Inc.
07.1997 - 01.2000
Quality Assurance Manager
Green Garden Foods, Inc
01.1995 - 07.1997
Microbiologist
Green Garden Foods, Inc
08.1994 - 01.1995
Bachelor of Science - Food Sciences And Technology
California Polytechnic State University
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