Job Description
Position Opening: December 11, 2024, Closing date: January 31, 2025
Job Title: General Manager
Location: On-site - Bemidji, MN
Company: KC’s Best Wild Rice & Nawapo.com
Compensation: Determined upon Qualifications
Close Date: 1/31/25 at 12:00 PM
About Us:
KC’s Best Wild Rice (Ogaakaaning Wild Rice) and Nawapo.com LLC are wholly owned by the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe and operate under the portfolio of Red Lake, Incorporated. KC’s was founded in 1994 by Kent Bahr and sold to Red Lake in 2021. Each year we package a million pounds of rice and send it all over the country to resellers and retailers. Our slogan, “Best service, best price, best rice” sums up or commitment to delivering exceptional service and high quality products.
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and driven General Manager to oversee the operations of a small but dynamic wild rice company. As the General Manager, you will be responsible for leading all aspects of the business, including production, supply chain, sales, marketing, and financial performance. The GM will ensure sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and alignment with the company's mission to deliver high-quality, authentic wild rice products to our customers. This role requires strong leadership, strategic vision, and a hands-on approach to managing daily operations in a small business environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the company’s strategic plan to achieve long-term business goals and financial targets.
- Operational Management: Oversee workflow, supply chain, quality control, and logistics to ensure efficiency and product excellence.
- Financial Oversight: Manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and identify opportunities for cost optimization and revenue growth.
- Sales and Marketing: Drive sales strategies, build customer relationships, and oversee marketing initiatives to grow brand recognition.
- Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and lead a small team, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
- Compliance: Ensure compliance with food safety standards (hazard analysis and critical control points certification), maintain MN DNR Wild rice license, and other industry requirements.
- Community Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with local producers, suppliers, and community partners to support the company’s sustainability and ethical sourcing goals.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Management or related field preferred.
- Proven experience in general management, preferably in the food production or agricultural industry.
- Proficient in MS Office Suite, QuickBooks, Square
- Strong financial understanding with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and profit-and-loss management.
- Excellent leadership and team management skills.
- Knowledge of supply chain, production processes, and quality assurance practices.
- Ability to develop and implement effective sales and marketing strategies.
Benefits
Competitive salary package
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement plan with employer matching.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Generous vacation and paid time off.
Dynamic and collaborative work environment.
Be a part of a company that values quality, sustainability, and cultural heritage. As General Manager, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by shaping the future of a growing business rooted in tradition and excellence.
To apply, email your resume, diploma(s) (if applicable), proof of tribal enrollment/descendancy (if
applicable), and cover letter (optional) to Mary Graves via email at mgraves@redlakeinc.com with
the subject line “KC’s Best Wild Rice GM Application”.
Applications accepted through Thursday, January 9, 2025.
This position follows the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indian’s Native American hiring preference
policy, resumes not meeting the required minimum qualifications will not be considered.