Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of manufacturing and operational performance within a high-volume production environment. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership across production, maintenance, warehousing, safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Director of Operations is accountable for driving operational excellence, improving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, and ensuring business objectives are achieved safely, on time, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day manufacturing and operational activities to ensure production, quality, cost, and delivery goals are consistently achieved.
• Develop and execute operational strategies that improve productivity, efficiency, throughput, and overall plant performance.
• Manage labor utilization, staffing levels, workforce planning, and operational resources to support business demands.
• Drive a culture of accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Lead, mentor, and develop managers, supervisors, and functional leaders across operations, maintenance, warehouse, quality, and safety.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve operational results.
• Partner with cross-functional teams including engineering, supply chain, quality, finance, and human resources to support organizational objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, regulatory, and company policies.
• Oversee inventory management, production planning, and material flow to support customer demand and operational efficiency.
• Identify and implement process improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and operational best practices.
• Manage operational budgets and maintain accountability for labor, materials, maintenance, and facility expenses.
• Utilize ERP systems, reporting tools, and data analytics to drive informed decision-making and performance improvements.
• Support capital projects, facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and operational transformation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within manufacturing, distribution, industrial, or operations environments.
• Proven experience leading large teams in a fast-paced operational setting.
• Demonstrated success improving productivity, safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Experience managing multiple departments and cross-functional teams.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, continuous improvement, and operational excellence methodologies.
• Experience with workforce planning, employee development, and performance management.
• Background working in union, non-union, or mixed labor environments is a plus.
• Experience overseeing budgets, capital expenditures, and financial performance metrics.
• Proficiency with ERP systems, production reporting tools, and Microsoft Office applications.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Leadership

• Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing teams.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and employee development skills.
• Results-driven leader with a hands-on management style.

Operational Excellence

• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, process improvement, and performance management.
• Ability to balance strategic planning with daily operational execution.
• Experience implementing systems, processes, and operational controls that drive sustainable results.

Problem Solving & Decision Making

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to identify root causes, develop solutions, and execute improvements.
• Comfortable operating in dynamic environments with changing priorities.

Communication

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and influence at all levels of the organization.

Technical & Systems

• Experience utilizing ERP, MRP, WMS, and business reporting systems.
• Strong computer skills including Excel, Word, Outlook, and data analysis tools.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing, distribution, or industrial environment with exposure to varying temperatures, machinery, and operational activity.
• Frequent interaction with production, warehouse, maintenance, and office personnel.
• Ability to walk production floors and operational areas for extended periods.

Key Details

• Location: On-site in Chicago, IL
• Compensation: $160,000 to $175,000 + eligibility to earn bonus
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) available for enrollment

If this position interests you and you fit the requirements, apply today!

Thank you,

Rachel Stewart

LaSalle Network

LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.

LaSalle Network is the leading provider of direct hire and temporary staffing services. For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing, Technology, Supply Chain, Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and Executive Search, LaSalle offers staffing and recruiting solutions to companies of all sizes and across all industries.

LaSalle Network is the premier staffing and recruiting firm, earning over 100 culture, revenue and industry-based awards from major publications and having its company experts regularly contribute insights on retention strategies, hiring trends, hiring challenges, and more to national news outlets. LaSalle Network offers temporary Field Employees benefit plans including medical, dental and vision coverage. Family Medical Leave, Worker's Compensation, Paid Leave and Sick Leave are also provided. View a full list of our benefits here: View a full list of our benefits here.

All assignments are at-will and their duration is subject to change.