Director of Manufacturing Job at OUTFORM in Union City

Director of Manufacturing

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Outform Group specializes in creating tangible consumer engagements that elevate, connect and humanize brand experiences. We unite leading experts in research, strategy, design, innovation and manufacturing, who work together to create unforgettable brand experiences. Lean, interdisciplinary teams work in close collaboration with clients, helping them to solve their user’s biggest problems. Our user‑centric, data‑driven approach focuses on creating a seamless experience across different environments.

Job Summary

The Director of Manufacturing plays a crucial role in shaping the manufacturing strategy and ensuring the production process aligns with the company’s goals. The role requires a blend of technical skills, strong leadership, strategic oversight and an open mind to manage a dynamic manufacturing environment centered around short‑run jobs. This role will oversee the operations and strategy of our Outform Union City facility, managing the production of retail displays and marketing materials, ensuring quality standards, overseeing inventory management, and optimizing efficiency in manufacturing, kitting, assembly and fulfillment operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all operations of the Outform Union City Facility to ensure jobs are produced efficiently, on time, and within budget.
• Monitor production schedules and ensure resources are properly planned, making adjustments to ensure on‑time delivery of materials, prototypes and finished goods, adhering to manufacturing and quality protocols.
• Oversee the costs of the facility, develop and manage capital budgets, and optimize expenses while ensuring availability of resources.
• Develop and track monthly KPIs to manage productivity, efficiency, output, quality and costs; conduct training and set performance targets with regular reviews.
• Manage inventory levels to ensure proper inventory management and organization.
• Create and execute manufacturing strategies that align with company goals, promoting continuous improvement without sacrificing the dynamic nature of operations.
• Identify bottlenecks in production and implement solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Maintain and improve quality control standards to ensure products meet or exceed customer expectations within budget.
• Recruit, train and maintain a highly performing manufacturing team that can adapt to dynamic manufacturing environments.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, design, development, account management and procurement teams to ensure seamless coordination and communication.
• Provide regular skills matrices of the manufacturing team to project management to align abilities with upcoming projects.
• Ensure all manufacturing activities comply with legal regulations and industry standards, promoting a culture of safety.
• Participate in developing environmental manufacturing protocols as needed.
• Own plant KPIs for quality, on‑time delivery and performance.
• Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards.
• Oversee facility systems maintenance (equipment, HVAC, plumbing, etc.) and ensure preventive maintenance schedules are followed.
• Coordinate responses to facility emergencies efficiently.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Occasionally engage with clients to understand needs and address concerns related to product quality or timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field required; Master’s degree (MBA or Engineering Management) preferred.
• Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, ISO standards or other relevant manufacturing methodologies strongly preferred.
• Proven leadership experience managing cross‑functional teams in a dynamic, short‑run manufacturing environment; ability to drive strategic initiatives and foster accountability and continuous improvement.
• Expertise in short‑run manufacturing, kitting, printing/die cutting and fulfillment operations; strong understanding of supply chain optimization, inventory control and production scheduling.
• Advanced analytical skills with experience using KPIs and operational data to drive performance improvements, cost control and capital planning.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to collaborate effectively across engineering, design, procurement and account management.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations, environmental protocols and facility safety standards.
• Experience implementing and maintaining compliance programs.