Chief Executive Officer

CONFIDENTIAL EXECUTIVE SEARCH | Chief Executive Officer

California | Food & Beverage Manufacturing

The Talent Shop is conducting a confidential search for a hands-on Chief Executive Officer to lead a nationally recognized, mission-driven food & beverage manufacturing organization entering its next phase of growth, modernization, and leadership transition.

This is an opportunity for an operationally minded executive who thrives in collaborative environments and understands how to balance innovation, financial performance, and people leadership within a manufacturing setting.

Key areas of focus include:

• Leading day-to-day operations, financial performance, and strategic planning

• Driving operational excellence across manufacturing, distribution, and organizational leadership

• Partnering closely with a long-tenured leadership team and Board of Directors

• Supporting future product innovation and long-term sustainability initiatives

• Building and mentoring high-performing teams through transparent, people-first leadership

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Executive leadership experience within food & beverage manufacturing or adjacent manufacturing environments

• Strong financial and operational acumen with the ability to interpret P&Ls, cash flow, and performance metrics

*Maintaining visibility into day-to-day accounting operations, financial reporting, and cash flow performance

• A collaborative and visible leadership style — this is not a “behind the desk” executive role

• Experience navigating operational complexity, supply chain considerations, and growth strategy

• The ability to lead with confidence while empowering teams and encouraging cross-functional input

• Prior CEO experience is not required; strong COO, President, or CFO backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply

Additional details:

• Hybrid leadership presence required with regular onsite visibility in Northern California operations

• Competitive executive compensation package up to $170k base

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401(k) match, generous PTO, paid holidays, and additional company-sponsored coverage

• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate

This organization values transparency, community involvement, mentorship, operational leadership, and long-term relationship building. Candidates who appreciate collaborative cultures and hands-on leadership environments will thrive here.