Director of Operations

Overview

We are seeking a results-driven Director of Operations to lead all manufacturing and operational activities for a business unit within a larger global organization. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, lean transformation, and cultural engagement within a manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be a proven leader who thrives in low-volume, high-mix, capital equipment manufacturing and can deliver sustainable improvements in efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

This position plays a critical role in enabling growth by ensuring Operations and Engineering are solid, scalable, and supportive of Sales expansion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize all operational functions including manufacturing, engineering, maintenance, supply chain, planning, quality, and sourcing.
• Drive lean transformation through process mapping, current vs. future state analysis, and factory flow optimization.
• Ensure the plant operates efficiently, cost effectively, and safely, meeting production targets while delivering high-quality products.
• Influence and engage workforce by fostering a culture of accountability, respect, and continuous improvement.
• Participate in monthly internal business reviews, quarterly corporate updates, and leadership meetings; articulate strategy across all levels of the organization.
• Support initiatives including quality and safety councils, make-vs-buy analysis, and capital expenditure justification.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders in Sales, Marketing, Product Development, and Customer Service to ensure operational readiness supports growth.
• Serve as a cultural change leader, helping employees understand and embrace what good looks like in operations.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelors degree in Engineering, Operations, Management, or related field required (may consider exceptional experience in lieu).
• Experience: 10+ years in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in operational leadership.
• Strong background in lean transformation and execution .
• Skilled in organizational leadership, process improvement, and cultural change management.
• Ability to effectively influence and engage in a manufacturing environment.
• Industry experience in automotive, metal tooling, or similar highly varied environments strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to present to senior leadership, corporate teams, and plant workforce.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Manufacturing and Management

Industries

• Manufacturing