Lactalis USA is seeking a Manager, Milk Operations and Farm Relationships Job In Italy to play a critical role in milk sourcing, farm partnerships, and supply chain operations. This position combines relationship management with operational excellence, ensuring a reliable, high-quality, and sustainable milk supply aligned with Lactalis’ business goals.
This role is ideal for a dairy or agriculture professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working directly with farmers, and brings strong operational and supply chain expertise.
About the Company
Lactalis is the world leader in dairy, a family-owned company with over 85,000 employees globally. In the United States, Lactalis offers an unrivaled portfolio of iconic dairy brands including Galbani®, Président®, Kraft®, Cracker Barrel®, Breakstone’s®, Parmalat®, siggi’s®, Stonyfield Organic®, Yoplait®, Go-Gurt®, and many more.
Guided by our core values — Ambition, Engagement, and Simplicity — Lactalis fosters an inclusive, innovative workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. We are committed to sustainability, animal welfare, and building long-term partnerships across the dairy supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Farm Relationships & Milk Procurement
- Support execution of Lactalis USA’s milk sourcing strategy, aligning quality, sustainability, cost, and service objectives
- Recruit and onboard new direct milk producers across Organic, Conventional, and NGMO programs
- Serve as a key liaison with producers on animal welfare, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility initiatives
- Identify and develop relationships with prospective farmers, including support for conventional-to-organic transitions
- Coordinate farm-level programs to improve profitability, milk quality, and sustainability
- Support marketing and communications initiatives such as farm tours and virtual events
- Obtain and maintain certifications including F.A.R.M. evaluator and Cow Signals training
- Ensure compliance with PMO requirements and internal quality standards
Operations & Supply Management
- Manage daily flow of raw milk, cream, skim, and dairy inputs to processing plants
- Partner with S&OP and plant teams to align supply with production needs
- Execute milk and cream buying/selling transactions to optimize supply balance
- Coordinate with haulers and plant teams to resolve delivery, quality, or capacity issues
- Drive adoption and effective use of the Ever.ag Milk+ scheduling platform
- Maintain accurate records, reports, and market updates
- Validate invoices, settlements, and volume reconciliations with Finance and Procurement
- Ensure continuity of supply during peak demand, holidays, and maintenance shutdowns
- Maintain compliance with USDA, FMMO, and Lactalis quality standards
Cross-Functional & Strategic Support
- Participate in S&OP, supply chain, and procurement meetings
- Provide leadership updates on farm recruitment, risks, and program progress
- Support sustainability initiatives focused on carbon reduction, feed efficiency, and supply chain improvement
- Implement digital tools and reporting enhancements to improve operational visibility
Requirements
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Agriculture, Supply Chain, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Agricultural studies or animal science majors preferred
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of relevant industry experience
- Strong experience working with dairy producers, haulers, and processing plants
- Food or dairy industry experience preferred
- Knowledge of FMMO pricing, USDA regulations, and sustainability programs is a plus
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong understanding of dairy supply chain operations and logistics
- Knowledge of raw milk, cream, skim markets, and FMMO rules
- Proficiency in supply chain and scheduling systems (Ever.ag Milk+ preferred)
- Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data management tools
Work Conditions
- Occasional travel required (primarily local farms, some travel to California and other regions)
- Extended hours may be required based on operational needs
- Hybrid work policy requires physical office presence
- Company-provided tools such as computer and phone; personal cell phone required
- Commitment to workplace safety and employee well-being
Benefits & Total Rewards
Lactalis USA offers a comprehensive Total Rewards Program, including:
- Competitive compensation
- Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous retirement plan contributions
- Paid Time Off starting from day one
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Education Reimbursement Program
- Inclusive and growth-focused work environment
