Director of Operations

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Director of Operations

Full Time Senior Management 3943 Buffalo Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14303, Niagara Falls, NY, US

Salary Range: $150,000.00 To $180,000.00 Annually

Director of Operations

Lead the Future of Manufacturing Operations Across Three Growing Facilities

Reliance Fluid Technologies is looking for a proven operations leader who thrives on building high-performing teams, improving operational performance, and driving meaningful business results.

This is not a role for someone who wants to maintain the status quo.

As our Director of Operations, you'll have the opportunity to shape strategy, influence company growth, and make a lasting impact across our manufacturing, blending, packaging, warehousing, and distribution operations. Reporting directly to the President, you'll lead a multi-site operation spanning Milan, MI, Niagara Falls, NY, and Buffalo, NY, with responsibility for delivering safe, efficient, customer-focused operations that support both current and future growth.

If you're energized by leading change, developing leaders, improving processes, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, we want to hear from you.

Why This Opportunity?

At Reliance Fluid Technologies, operations is at the center of everything we do. This role offers a unique combination of strategic leadership and operational influence.

You’ll:

• Lead operations across multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities
• Partner directly with executive leadership on business strategy and growth initiatives
• Shape operational culture, performance standards, and leadership development
• Drive Lean and continuous improvement initiatives that deliver measurable results
• Build the next generation of operational leaders through coaching and mentorship
• Influence capital investments, productivity improvements, and long-term operational strategy

What You'll Be Responsible For

As Director of Operations, you will:

• Provide leadership for manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and distribution operations across multiple locations
• Drive safety, quality, productivity, service, and cost performance throughout the organization
• Establish accountability through KPI management and performance metrics
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean principles, 6S, and structured problem-solving methodologies
• Improve equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and asset utilization
• Develop and mentor site leaders, managers, and supervisors
• Manage operating budgets and capital investment plans
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Customer Success, and executive leadership teams
• Ensure operational execution aligns with customer expectations and company growth objectives

What We're Looking For

You may be the ideal candidate if you have:

• Bachelor's degree in Operations, Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field (required)
• 12+ years of progressive manufacturing or operations leadership experience (required)
• Significant experience leading managers and supervisors in industrial or manufacturing environments
• Demonstrated success leading multi-site operations
• Strong expertise in KPI management, operational excellence, budgeting, and capital planning
• Experience driving organizational change and continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong business acumen with an ability to make data-driven decisions
• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification (preferred)

Industry Experience Preferred

Experience in one or more of the following environments is highly desirable:

• Specialty chemicals
• Lubricants
• Blending and packaging operations
• Bulk liquid handling
• Process manufacturing

The Leader We're Seeking

Beyond experience, we're looking for someone who:

• Leads with integrity and accountability
• Builds engaged, high-performing teams
• Creates a culture of safety and operational excellence
• Balances strategic thinking with hands‑on execution
• Is comfortable making tough decisions and driving change
• Inspires others through coaching, development, and leadership

Ready to Build What's Next?

If you've successfully led manufacturing operations, developed strong teams, and delivered measurable business results, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of a growing organization.

• Eligible for annual bonus based on company and individual performance
• Paid weekly every Thursday
• 401(k) with employer match - no waiting period
• Company-paid STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Supportive, family-owned culture with company-sponsored events and outings

Work-Life Balance Matters Here

We understand that real life exists outside of work. Appointments, family responsibilities, and flexibility matter. We believe strong performance and work-life balance can coexist, and we strive to create an environment that supports both.

Our Culture

We’re a family-owned organization that believes employees should be treated like people, not numbers.

Our leadership team is approachable, collaborative, and accessible. Employees have the opportunity to make a real impact on the business while working alongside teams that value communication, accountability, integrity, and innovation.

Our CORE values guide how we operate every day:

• Care & Communication – We support one another and communicate openly and respectfully
• Ownership & Accountability – We take responsibility for our work and follow through
• Responsibility & Integrity – We do what’s right and hold ourselves to a high standard
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation – We continuously look for better ways to improve and grow

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know so appropriate assistance can be provided.