Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Melissa Stigge

Elkhorn,NE

Summary

Results-driven supply chain manager skilled in leading contract manufacturing operations and executing commercialization projects on time and within budget. Leverages data-driven decision-making and relationship management to optimize production planning, enhance efficiency, and drive strategic initiatives that boost overall performance.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Manager Contract Manufacturing

CONAGRA BRANDS
Omaha, NE
01.2019 - Current
  • Spearheaded cost savings initiatives that identified $1.8 million in savings at one facility, with $800,000 actionable immediately.
  • Managed end-to-end supply chain for external manufacturing sites, including production planning and materials management.
  • Led contract manufacturing operations for grocery/snacks portfolio, serving as primary liaison with external production facilities.
  • Executed commercialization projects on time and within budget, overseeing scheduling and plant readiness for new manufacturing projects.
  • Conducted operational reviews to identify areas for efficiency enhancement, cost reduction, and performance improvement.
  • Aligned cross-functional teams to proactively address production and forecasting challenges, ensuring timely fulfillment of customer orders.
  • Established relationships with account managers to drive implementation of strategic initiatives.
  • Supported RFP activities and facilitated the startup of new contract manufacturing locations.

Senior Process Engineer

CONAGRA BRANDS
Omaha, NE
04.2017 - 01.2019
  • Led process engineering for frozen platform, transitioning from bench to full-scale production.
  • Developed master process specifications for frozen platform, ensuring consistent frozen meal production execution.
  • Utilized MOPD tools and CQV processes to streamline operational efficiency in frozen meal manufacturing.
  • Supported new project initiatives, contributing to incremental net sales and establishing a future growth pipeline.

Process Engineer

CONAGRA BRANDS
Omaha, NE
09.2013 - 04.2017
  • ,Developed scale-up parameters through planning and executing bench-scale and pilot plant trials to ensure successful transition to production.
  • Documented manufacturing processes to enhance consistency and efficiency across operations.
  • Defined capital equipment specifications and reviewed P&IDs, 3D drawings, and layouts for optimal operation.
  • Participated in equipment purchase, installation, verification, and validation processes including FAT, SAT, and CQV to ensure compliance and operational readiness.
  • Led technical projects using FMECA, process requirements documents, and flow sheets to mitigate risks and solve cross-functional challenges.
  • Initiated startup of satellite pilot plant for thermal process development for thermal process development in refrigerated meals.

Technical Operations Plant Engineer

MERCK & CO., INC.
Elkton, VA
07.2009 - 08.2013
  • Led imipenem sterile manufacturing area as plant engineer and process lead, overseeing sterilization, crystallization, filter drying, and packaging to ensure compliance and quality.
  • Coordinated planning, execution, and documentation of sterile process simulations for bulk sterile and aseptic packaging operations, engaging over 100 personnel across engineering, operations, quality, and sanitation.
  • Managed aseptic powder filling and packaging operations to ensure efficiency and compliance.
  • Executed scientific problem-solving in quality investigations to identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and facilitate timely product release.
  • Provided on-call support for operational troubleshooting and issue resolution.

Education

Master of Business Administration -

University of Nebraska At Omaha
Omaha, NE
05-2019

Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering

Iowa State University
Ames, IA
05-2008

Skills

  • Supply chain management
  • Account management
  • Manufacturing operations
  • Project management
  • Cost reduction strategies
  • Continuous improvement
  • Root cause analysis
  • Process development
  • Strategic planning
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Relationship building
  • Contract management

Timeline

Manager Contract Manufacturing

CONAGRA BRANDS
01.2019 - Current

Senior Process Engineer

CONAGRA BRANDS
04.2017 - 01.2019

Process Engineer

CONAGRA BRANDS
09.2013 - 04.2017

Technical Operations Plant Engineer

MERCK & CO., INC.
07.2009 - 08.2013

Master of Business Administration -

University of Nebraska At Omaha

Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering

Iowa State University
Melissa Stigge