Director of Operations

A specialized manufacturing organization is seeking a Director of Operations to oversee production activities, drive operational performance, and lead continuous improvement initiatives. This position will provide strategic and hands-on leadership across manufacturing operations, with responsibility for production efficiency, quality, safety, cost management, and team development.

The ideal candidate brings extensive manufacturing leadership experience, preferably within a custom or complex production environment, along with a demonstrated ability to implement Lean manufacturing principles, improve operational processes, and develop high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across manufacturing departments, ensuring production activities align with organizational goals and performance expectations.
• Lead and develop production managers, supervisors, and manufacturing personnel, establishing clear expectations and promoting accountability.
• Oversee daily manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, workflow management, and resource allocation.
• Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall operational performance.
• Establish and monitor operational performance metrics related to productivity, quality, safety, cost, and delivery.
• Manage manufacturing budgets, direct labor costs, overhead expenses, and other operational expenditures to support profitability objectives.
• Lead initiatives to improve manufacturing processes, resolve operational challenges, and strengthen production capabilities.
• Promote a culture of workplace safety and ensure compliance with applicable health, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, Materials, and other departments to improve coordination and address production challenges.
• Apply root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies to resolve recurring operational issues.
• Evaluate staffing needs, workforce capabilities, and training opportunities to support current and future production requirements.
• Lead change management efforts and support the implementation of new processes, systems, and operational improvements.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic planning, operational priorities, and long-term business objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including responsibility for managing production teams and operational performance.
• 5+ years of experience within a custom, complex, or specialized manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing manufacturing budgets, labor costs, operational expenses, and other financial performance measures.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop managers, supervisors, and production personnel.
• Experience driving organizational change, improving production processes, and implementing operational efficiencies.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing operations, production planning, quality management, and workplace safety requirements.
• Experience partnering with Engineering, Supply Chain, and other operational departments to resolve complex production challenges.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Effective communication and leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to build collaborative, high-performing teams.

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