Golden Cannoli Shells Co. welcomes Hector Pena as Director of Manufacturing and Plant Operations

Golden Cannoli is pleased to announce that Hector Pena has joined the company as Director of Manufacturing and Plant Operations.

In this role, Hector will lead GC’s day-to-day manufacturing and plant operations, with responsibility for employee and food safety, quality, production planning and execution, labor planning, sanitation, maintenance, process improvement, and overall plant performance. He will play the leading role in strengthening operating discipline across the facility and building the manufacturing platform required to support GC’s next stage of growth.

Hector brings more than 15 years of progressive leadership experience in high-volume food manufacturing environments. His background includes plant leadership, P&L management, production planning, workforce development, continuous improvement, CAPEX execution, food safety compliance, ERP and inventory systems, and multi-shift operations. He has held leadership roles with Dimitria Delights Baking Company, Elevation Foods, Bake’n Joy Foods, Joseph’s Gourmet Pasta & Sauces, and Hans Kissle Foods.

Throughout his career, Hector has built a track record of improving plant performance, reducing labor costs, strengthening SOPs, improving inventory accuracy, delivering successful food safety audits, and developing high-performing production teams. His experience with HACCP, SQF, GMP, OSHA, USDA, FDA, Lean Six Sigma, and KPI-driven operations align closely with GC’s focus on disciplined execution, operational excellence, and scalable growth.

“We are excited to welcome Hector to GC at this important stage in our company’s development,” said Chet Baker, Golden Cannoli’s CEO. “Hector brings the right combination of food manufacturing experience, plant-floor leadership, process discipline, and impactful people development. His leadership will be critical as we continue to strengthen our operations, improve execution, and build the manufacturing capabilities required to support our ambitious growth plans in the coming years.” 

“I am truly excited to be joining the GC family at such an important time. From day one, my focus will be on the things that matter most; ensuring our people and products are safe, delivering the quality our customers count on, and driving strong, consistent production performance every day. I believe that when you get these three things right, everything else follows. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves, learning alongside the team, building something we are all proud of, and contributing to the continued growth and success of this great company. This is just the beginning, and I could not be more energized and excited to get started!”

GC is excited to welcome Hector and looks forward to the leadership and operational impact he will bring to the business.

About Golden Cannoli Shells Co.

Founded in 1970, Golden Cannoli Shells Co. is the leading manufacturer of premium cannoli shells and dessert products in the United States. 3rd generation, family-owned and operated for more than 55 years, Golden Cannoli serves foodservice operators, retail partners, distributors, and private label customers nationwide and internationally. The company is committed to delivering exceptional quality, innovation, and authentic Italian-inspired desserts while continuing to invest in manufacturing excellence and customer success.

Media Contact:
Valerie Bono-Bunker, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer
Golden Cannoli Shells Co. valerie@goldencannoli.com www.goldencannoli.com