Michael Priebel
SUMMERDALE,Alabama
Summary
VP of Operations with 20+ years of expertise, distinguished for transformative leadership and strategic innovations in the food production industry. As a leader I have propelled significant advancements in productivity and global market expansion, leveraging skills in product development, vendor management, and team leadership and team building. Committed to pioneering operational efficiencies and sustainable growth, continuously setting new benchmarks in business development and international procurement.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Plant Manager
Ren Seafood
02.2023 - Current
- Spearheaded a strategic workforce restructuring, resulting in a 60% productivity boost
- Implemented preventative maintenance programs, minimizing equipment downtime and expanding production hours
- Reduced OTIF fines to zero
- SQEP fees reduced through meticulous and thorough pallet building processes
- Managed a workforce of 110 employees
- Cut labor costs by over $100k/mo, by streamlining operations and adding automation and technology
- Built KPIs to improve the knowledge and engagement of staff from all departments
- Led the adoption of green technologies, cutting carbon footprint by 20%
- Implemented quality control measures to reduce defect rates and enhance product quality consistently.
- Maximized plant safety through proactive strategies and well-structured training.
- Provided direction and leadership to all levels of employees and managers.
- Reduced costs by eliminating materials waste and unnecessary labor hours, on track to have a $6,000,000 savings Y/Y.
General Manager
Keys Fisheries Inc.
03.2020 - 02.2023
- I lead hands on, with consistent and respectful mentorship, always explaining the reasoning and effect to the business to a staff of 60
- Created efficiencies to increase production and drive out cost by adding equipment to a previously completely manual methodology
- Reduced cost for direct and indirect procurement 30% by using volume buys to reduce the frequency of inbound shipments saving on freight as well as negotiating vendor managed inventories
- Developed contractual maintenance for refrigeration and all equipment
- Drove continual improvement of HACCP programs, added allergen testing, food defense and changed the culture by teaching the 'Why' we do this rather than just enforcing
- Continued to strengthen relationships with suppliers and contractors by consistently being a good partner and understanding the needs of the vendor while ensuring Keys Fisheries was at the forefront
- Reviewed and reported on financials to ownership
- Oversaw contractual repairs and maintenance by working directly with contractors and maintenance professionals
- Boosted sales by $8.4M through strategic account additions and market expansion
Merchandising Director
Save on Seafood / US Foods
11.2018 - 12.2019
- Spearheaded the development of innovative procurement strategies for fresh seafood on a national scale, adapting to individual distribution center needs
- Boosted competitiveness by leveraging increasing volumes from additional distribution centers, demonstrating analytical and visionary leadership
- Successfully increased wholesale sales by 80% through consistent supply of quality seafood, showcasing persuasive and results-oriented approach
- Managed dock operations, quota, and allocation transfers, demonstrating detail-focused and supportive management skills
- Expanded fresh seafood program beyond Florida to six additional distribution centers, developing regionally and seasonally relevant options, reflecting a collaborative and enthusiastic attitude
Associate Vendor Manager
Save on Seafood / US Foods
06.2016 - 12.2018
- Steered procurement team, instilling negotiation and freight arrangement skills
- Introduced innovative lot utilization and rotation methods to production team
- Boosted sales team's efficacy by comprehensive product training, enhancing their product knowledge
- Actively participated in fish cutting, showcasing potential yield achievements
- Achieved improved team confidence and effectiveness through hands-on leadership and education
- Transformed procurement by teaching negotiation and freight management, elevating team efficiency
Senior Supply Chain Specialist
Bloomin Brands, Inc.
01.2014 - 12.2016
- Managed seafood procurement for a $195MM portfolio, negotiating contracts and resolving vendor issues swiftly
- Implemented rigorous quality control measures, including random product testing and international food safety inspections
- Spearheaded sustainability initiatives across multiple brands, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment
- Introduced 12 new fish species, reducing food costs by over 6% and revitalizing fresh fish brands
- Served on the National Fisheries Institute's Board of Directors, representing the company's interests and vision
- Enhanced vendor relations, accelerating issue resolution and improving contract terms
Corporate Purchaser
Inland Seafood Corp.
01.2004 - 12.2014
- Spearheaded procurement operations for three key divisions within Inland Seafood Corp
- Successfully managed the acquisition of both fresh and frozen products, enhancing supply chain efficiency
- Implemented innovative procurement strategies for Inland Market, a value-added division, driving business growth
- Resolved procurement challenges by leveraging analytical skills and industry knowledge
- Contributed significantly to the organization's profitability through strategic purchasing decisions
- Enhanced procurement accuracy by 30% through data-driven decision-making
Executive Sous Chef
China Grill Management
01.2002 - 03.2004
Pastry Chef
Wish Inc
06.1999 - 02.2002
Chef D' Cuisine
The Crow's Nest
08.1996 - 05.1998
Line Cook
Little Palm Island
07.1994 - 08.1996
Education
Bachelors of Hotel and Restaurant Management - Four-Year Culinary and Hospitality studies
05.1994
Skills
- Team Leadership/Training
- Global Procurement/Purchasing
- Cost Control
- Vendor Management
- Strategic Planning
- Problem Solving
- Quality Control
- Budget Management
- Seafood Knowledge
- Sales/Marketing Collaboration
- Supply Chain
- Business Development
- Customs Regulations
- Inventory Management
- Product Development
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Plant Manager
Ren Seafood
02.2023 - Current
General Manager
Keys Fisheries Inc.
03.2020 - 02.2023
Merchandising Director
Save on Seafood / US Foods
11.2018 - 12.2019
Associate Vendor Manager
Save on Seafood / US Foods
06.2016 - 12.2018
Senior Supply Chain Specialist
Bloomin Brands, Inc.
01.2014 - 12.2016
Corporate Purchaser
Inland Seafood Corp.
01.2004 - 12.2014
Executive Sous Chef
China Grill Management
01.2002 - 03.2004
Pastry Chef
Wish Inc
06.1999 - 02.2002
Chef D' Cuisine
The Crow's Nest
08.1996 - 05.1998
Line Cook
Little Palm Island
07.1994 - 08.1996
Bachelors of Hotel and Restaurant Management - Four-Year Culinary and Hospitality studies
Similar Profiles
Cornelius CurtisCornelius Curtis
Production Worker at Ren SeafoodProduction Worker at Ren Seafood
Zhiming MeiZhiming Mei
Kitchen Helper at Tong Ren 4 Season Coconut ChickenKitchen Helper at Tong Ren 4 Season Coconut Chicken
Jonathan KongJonathan Kong
TCM Internship Student at Beijing Tong Ren TangTCM Internship Student at Beijing Tong Ren Tang