Manufacturing Director of Operations

About the role

The Manufacturing Director of Operations is a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for the strategic and tactical oversight of manufacturing, maintenance, purchasing, and shipping functions. This role is accountable for achieving operational objectives related to safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity.

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead employees in various departments, including manufacturing engineering and factory personnel
• Contribute to the development and execution of short- and long-term strategic plans, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and measurable outcomes
• Develop and implement plans to improve the use of materials, equipment, and personnel, with a focus on cost control and efficiency
• Ensure ongoing compliance with all federal and state regulatory requirements
• Direct and coordinate plant operations within company policies and procedures
• Establish and maintain operational performance metrics (KPIs), including productivity, scrap, rework, and on-time delivery; take corrective action as necessary
• Identify, recommend, and implement process improvements that reduce cost, improve quality, and increase throughput
• Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous review of production standards and procedures
• Ensure adherence to ISO 9001:2015 quality standards, including audit readiness and corrective action implementation
• Direct supply chain and inventory management activities, including overseeing sourcing strategy, buy vs. make analysis, and vendor selection and contract negotiation
• Evaluate staffing needs and ensure appropriate workforce planning, training/development, and succession planning
• Monitor and control departmental spending in relation to budget and production volumes
• Conduct financial and operational analyses, including ROI evaluations for capital expenditures such as equipment and tooling
• Lead cross-functional initiatives that drive operational excellence and support business growth objectives
• Enforce accountability at all levels by setting clear expectations, monitoring performance, and addressing deficiencies in a timely manner

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in business, engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment
• Minimum of seven (7) years of leadership or management experience with direct accountability for operational results
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate across all organizational levels
• Proficiency in MRP/ERP systems
• Demonstrated experience in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma)
• Basic knowledge of cost accounting principles and financial analysis
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Proven ability to analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions
• Demonstrated project management experience with measurable results
• Understanding of automotive-based quality management system
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 15%)
• Ability to analyze machine cycle times, capacity, and production constraints

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in MRP/ERP systems
• Demonstrated experience in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma)
• Basic knowledge of cost accounting principles and financial analysis
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Proven ability to analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions
• Demonstrated project management experience with measurable results
• Understanding of automotive-based quality management system

Benefits

Not specified

Pay

A reasonable estimate of the Base Salary for this role is $130,000 - $145,000 per year.

Schedule

Not specified