Director of Operations (Aerospace Manufacturing)

Key Responsibilities

• Direct all site operations, including production, maintenance, and support functions, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Drive standard operation procedures to embed these standards with front line leaders to drive standardization and clear communication through the site.
• Translate the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) consensus plan into actionable operational strategies. Ensure capacity, resources, and schedules to align with customer demand.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Drive accountability through robust operating mechanisms and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with planning and SIOP teams on labor, equipment, and tooling capacity planning. Implement strategies to eliminate bottlenecks and optimize throughput. Ensure material availability and supplier performance support operational goals.
• Ensure effective use of ERP systems for production scheduling, material flow, and shop floor execution. Champion best practices and system enhancements.
• Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and other improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall operational performance.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain variability, capacity constraints, and compliance challenges.
• Design and maintain KPIs, dashboards, and management operating systems highlighting operational health, risk areas, and required corrective actions.
• Build and mentor a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
• 8+ years of experience in operations leadership within aerospace or other highly regulated industries
• Proven track record in managing production, maintenance, and supply chain functions
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, capacity planning, and operational excellence principles
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle, AS400, Epicor, etc.) and advanced analytical tools (Excel, Power BI)
• Knowledge of AS9100, FAA FAR 145, EASA and CAAC requirements and regulatory compliance
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills