Director of Operations

Director of Operations

Job details

General information

Entity

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.

Safran is in the 2nd place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2024" ranking.

Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers onboard intelligence solutions allowing them to understand the environment, reduce mental load and guarantee a trajectory, even in critical situations, in all environments: on land, at sea, in the sky or space. The company harnesses the expertise of its 13,000 employees towards these three functions: observe, decide and guide, for the civil and military markets.

Reference number

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Job details

Domain

Production

Job field / Job profile

Manufacture assembly and repair - Production/ repair director

Job title

Director of Operations

Employment type

Permanent

Professional category

Professional, Engineer & Manager

Part time / Full time

Full-time

Job description

About Actuation Rockford

As part of the GBU Actuation within Safran Electronics & Defense, our Rockford site designs, manufactures, and supports advanced flight control systems for major aerospace programs. Recently integrated into the Safran Group, Rockford is in a key phase of transformation to achieve operational excellence and full autonomy within a demanding international context.

Role Overview

We are seeking a senior and autonomous Director of Operations. Reporting directly to the General Manager of the Rockford entity, you will drive operational performance, manage supplier relationships, and build a high-performance Operations organization aligned with Safran's standards. This permanent position offers a unique opportunity to shape and lead the operational future of a strategic Safran site.

But what else? (advantages, specificities, etc.)

Why Join Us?

• Be at the heart of a major transformation in a global technology group.

• Shape the future of operations at a strategic site, with autonomy and high visibility.

• Lead, build, and grow a high-performing team dedicated to innovation and industrial excellence within Safran.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to remain in a stationary position and occasionally move about the office and laboratory. Constantly operate and use a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copier/printer and laboratory machinery. The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information. The ability to observe, identify and assess details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds across office for various needs.

Work Environment:

The work environment is split between office & laboratory work, with most work being performed in the office. Noise level in the office is typically quiet while the noise level in the lab can occasionally require hearing protection.

Experience in relevant Business sector:

Experience within aerospace industry a plus but not required.

Candidate skills & requirements

Main Missions

1. Operational Performance & Supplier Management

• Lead all operational activities within the site's scope: supply chain management (planning, logistics, inventory), procurement, and performance of suppliers.

• Manage the performance of main supplier and partner for OE and for aftermarket activity

• Implement structured routines, robust daily management, and performance recovery plans to meet program objectives in quality, cost, and delivery.

• Build and nurture trust-based, performance-oriented relationships with key suppliers essential to the success of the site.

1. Industrial Transfer Projects

• In a subsequent phase, oversee the planning and secure execution of industrial transfer projects for products currently manufactured externally, to Safran sites.

• Ensure the implementation of effective buffers, risk management strategies, and transparent communication with customers and internal stakeholders to protect operational performance and ensure continuity.

1. Building an Operations Organization

• Define, strategy, structure, and deploy the target Operations organization for the Rockford site, covering all activities within your perimeter.

• Recruit, develop, and coach a team focused on operational excellence, autonomy, and capability to drive performance within Safran's global standards.

• Establish clear KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives to embed a culture of accountability, agility, and high standards.

Profile Sought

• Senior manager with recognized success in Operations management, including experience in manufacturing, assembly, industrial methods, and supply chain.

• 10 plus Years of Experience in related field.

• Demonstrated experience in supplier relationship management and performance improvement in an international, industrial context.

• In-depth understanding of the aerospace industry, its processes, and its high standards.

• Proven ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams; strong leadership and people development skills.

• Capable of building trusted relationships with both customers and suppliers, and representing the company's interests effectively.

• Methodical, structured, and data-driven approach—essential for successful supply chain and operations management.

• Strong communication and negotiation skills; fluency in English required, French is a plus.

Travel Specificity:

Potential travel between SED Sites- up to 25%.

Annual salary

$168K- $192K

Job location

Job location

North America, United States, Illinois

City (-ies)

4747 Harrison Ave, M/S 298-6 61108 Rockford

Applicant criteria

Minimum education level achieved

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum experience level required

More than 8 years

ITAR Controlled Position: Select "Yes" if role requires U.S. citizenship/permanent residency

Yes