Director of Operational Excellence (Greater Chicago Area)

We're partnering with a rapidly growing, private equity-backed manufacturing organization to identify an accomplished Operational Excellence Leader for a newly created senior leadership position.

Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer , this individual will serve as a trusted strategic and hands-on partner, driving enterprise-wide operational transformation and helping shape the company's next phase of growth.

With approximately 1000 employees across 10+ operating locations and an active acquisition strategy, the organization is focused on integrating its operations, strengthening its infrastructure, and building a scalable foundation for continued expansion.

This isn't a role for someone who simply wants to maintain an established continuous improvement program. We're looking for a proven change agent who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, earning the trust of plant leadership, and turning complex operational challenges into meaningful business results.

The Opportunity

• Drive operational excellence across multiple manufacturing facilities , leading Lean and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, equipment effectiveness, throughput, and profitability.
• Partner directly with the COO and site leadership to evaluate operational capabilities, establish priorities, and execute improvement strategies across facilities at varying stages of operational maturity.
• Support the integration of acquired businesses , establishing consistent operating practices, performance measurements, and processes while respecting the history and strengths of each organization.
• Leverage data and technology to identify performance gaps, establish meaningful KPIs, and deliver measurable operational and financial improvements.
• Build a culture of continuous improvement , coaching and influencing plant leaders and cross-functional teams while fostering accountability, collaboration, and sustainable change.
• Support continued growth and scalability through operational assessments, process standardization, capital improvement initiatives, and the implementation of best practices.

What We're Looking For

• Proven manufacturing leadership experience in operational excellence, continuous improvement, and multi-site transformation, with strong knowledge of plastics manufacturing, flexible packaging, extrusion, converting, or related processes.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean/Six Sigma initiatives across multiple facilities, with measurable improvements in productivity, efficiency, quality, cost reduction, and profitability.
• Strong technical and analytical capabilities , including manufacturing processes, equipment optimization, preventive maintenance, performance metrics, and data-driven decision-making.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills , with the emotional intelligence, credibility, and adaptability to influence change, build trust with established plant leaders, and collaborate effectively at all organizational levels.
• A hands-on, solutions-oriented leadership style with the ability to balance strategic thinking with practical execution in complex, evolving manufacturing environments. Experience in private equity-backed or acquisition-driven organizations is highly desirable.

This is a highly visible, plant-focused position requiring approximately 50–75% travel . This is not a fully remote opportunity. Relocation is available for the right candidate.

Interested in Learning More?

If you're an accomplished manufacturing leader ready to leverage your experience in a position where you can make a lasting organizational impact, we'd welcome the opportunity to connect.

Please apply with your updated resume for confidential consideration.

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