Operations Manager

AkroFire is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee daily operations, drive operational performance, and lead continuous improvement initiatives. This position is responsible for ensuring efficient, cost-effective operations while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and compliance.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership, project management, and operational experience, with the ability to develop teams, improve processes, manage resources, and execute strategic initiatives in a manufacturing environment.

About AkroFire: AkroFire delivers high-temperature insulation, fire protection, and thermal barrier solutions for aerospace and industrial customers. Our products support safety, performance, and compliance in mission-critical environments.

Our extensive product portfolio includes elastomeric seals, gaskets, tooling, hoses, ablatives, survivability tiles, coatings and tapes, EMI and thermal shielding, electrically conductive metalized fabrics, and encapsulated O-rings.

At AkroFire, employees work in a dynamic, quality-driven manufacturing environment where craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement are central to our success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Operations Management & Strategy

• Oversee daily operations to ensure efficiency, consistency, and cost-effective performance.

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals and objectives.

• Establish and maintain operational policies, procedures, and performance standards.

• Identify operational risks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.

• Lead cross-functional initiatives to support business objectives and continuous improvement.

• Communicate priorities, policies, action items, and operational updates through tiered meetings and presentations.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop production technicians, quality control technicians, and salaried direct reports.

• Establish clear performance expectations, goals, and accountability measures.

• Support workforce planning, staffing, succession planning, and employee development.

• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, continuous improvement, and engagement.

• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.

• Address operational challenges and employee concerns in a timely and professional manner.

• Communicate effectively with employees at all organizational levels, from executive leadership to production technicians.

• Lead cultural change and organizational transformation initiatives.

• Build strong relationships with customers, business leaders, and key stakeholders.

• Develop and support individual development plans for direct reports.

Process Improvement & Performance Management

• Establish, monitor, and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics.

• Analyze data from ERP, timekeeping, quality, and other systems to identify trends and improve decision-making.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing scrap, rework, traceability issues, and takt time while increasing production output.

• Utilize process mapping and engineered solutions to improve operational efficiency.

• Evaluate equipment, systems, and processes and recommend capital expenditures (CapEx) when appropriate.

• Drive measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and overall operational performance.

Budgeting & Financial Management

• Develop and manage operational budgets, forecasts, and capital expenditure requirements.

• Monitor expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

• Analyze financial and operational performance against established standards.

• Allocate resources effectively to support business priorities.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to improve profitability, reduce variances, and shorten cycle times.

Quality, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with applicable safety, environmental, regulatory, and industry requirements.

• Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks.

• Conduct operational reviews, audits, and performance assessments.

• Implement corrective actions and mistake-proofing solutions to prevent recurring issues.

• Promote a safe, compliant, and productive manufacturing environment.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of people or project management experience.

• Experience in project management, including managing multiple projects, priorities, and competing deadlines.

• Demonstrated experience developing and monitoring KPIs, operational reports, and performance improvement plans.

• Strong understanding of business processes, resource planning, and operational controls.

• Experience leading teams, managing budgets, and driving operational improvements.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.

• Strong leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to influence stakeholders, lead organizational change, and execute operational strategies.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage competing business needs.

• Ability to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous management experience at AkroFire, preferably 1+ year.

• Knowledge of AkroFire products, manufacturing processes, and operations.

• Experience with Epicor ERP systems.

• Experience in a lean manufacturing environment.

• Knowledge of AS9100D quality management standards.

• Experience in facilities management, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude.

• Demonstrated experience leading cultural change and organizational transformation.

Benefits:

At AkroFire, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

AkroFire is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.