Operations Manager

Under the direction of the Plant Manager the Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily operations, driving operational excellence, and ensuring the efficient use of resources to meet business objectives. This role leads cross-functional teams, manages performance metrics, improves processes, and ensures compliance with company policies, quality standards, and safety requirements. The Operations Manager plays a key role in achieving production, cost, quality, and customer satisfaction goals. The Operations Manager serves as the second-in-command for the facility and acts on behalf of the Plant Manager during periods of absence, ensuring continuity of operations, leadership, and customer support. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Operational Leadership Manage and oversee daily operational activities to ensure efficient and effective business performance. Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals and objectives. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Oversee production planning and scheduling activities to ensure alignment with customer demand, production capacity, material availability, and business objectives. Coordinate with the Planner and Scheduler to optimize workflow, inventory levels, resource utilization, and on-time delivery performance. Serve as the backup for planning and scheduling functions as needed to ensure continuity of operations and customer commitments. Ensure operational processes support customer requirements and business growth. Data Analysis and Performance Management Analyze operational, production, labor, quality, and financial data to identify trends, root causes, risks, and improvement opportunities. Use KPIs and reporting tools to evaluate performance, support decision-making, and drive accountability across the operation. Translate data insights into clear action plans that improve productivity, cost, quality, safety, and customer service outcomes. Team Management Lead, coach, and develop supervisors and team members. Establish performance expectations and conduct regular performance evaluations. Promote employee engagement, accountability, and a positive workplace culture. Support workforce planning, training, and succession planning activities. Ensure planning and scheduling processes are executed effectively and support production, inventory, and customer service goals. Process Improvement Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety, and cost efficiency. Implement Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Analyze operational data and develop action plans to address performance gaps. Standardize processes and ensure adherence to best practices. Develop and manage departmental budgets. Monitor operating expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities. Ensure efficient utilization of labor, materials, and equipment. Support business planning and forecasting activities. Quality and Compliance Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and safety standards. Support quality management systems and corrective action processes. Conduct audits and inspections to maintain operational compliance. Promote a culture of safety and risk mitigation. Customer and Stakeholder Support Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to meet customer expectations. Resolve operational issues impacting service, delivery, or quality. Communicate operational performance and improvement initiatives to leadership. REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong leadership and people management skills. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret operational data, identify trends, evaluate performance gaps, and use insights to drive sound business decisions and continuous improvement. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Financial and budget management experience. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement principles. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency with ERP systems, Microsoft Office, and operational reporting tools. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES: Comfortable having challenging conversations Manages conflict diplomatically Collaborates comfortably with different groups of people Comfortably communicates through different mediums Pays close attention to quality standards Follows through with established requirements EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related field preferred. 5+ years of operations, manufacturing, distribution, or business management experience. Previous leadership experience managing teams and operational performance. Experience with continuous improvement methodologies and KPI management. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to frequently walk throughout a manufacturing facility, warehouse, and office environments. Ability to stand for extended periods while observing operations, conducting audits, and supporting production activities. Ability to occasionally climb stairs, ladders, and access elevated platforms to inspect equipment and processes. Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach as necessary to evaluate operational areas and equipment. Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds; greater lifting may be required with assistance. Ability to use a computer, keyboard, and standard office equipment for extended periods. Ability to visually inspect products, equipment, and work areas, including close and distance vision. Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and in group settings within a manufacturing environment. Ability to work in a manufacturing setting that may involve exposure to noise, moving machinery, varying temperatures, dust, and other industrial conditions, while utilizing required personal protective equipment (PPE). Ability to travel between departments, facilities, customers, or suppliers as business needs require. Mid-America Fittings (MAF) is the manufacturing arm of the Midland Industries family of companies, specializing in the production of high-quality brass fittings and valves made right here in the United States. Based in Overland Park, Kansas, MAF combines the agility and craftsmanship of a specialized manufacturer with the resources, stability, and growth opportunities of a much larger organization. As part of Midland Industries, MAF is connected to a leading North American platform that serves industrial, plumbing, hose, fluid power, and OEM customers through an extensive portfolio of products and distribution channels. Midland has grown through strategic acquisitions and currently operates a diversified family of brands spanning distribution, manufacturing, and value-added solutions. Equal Opportunity Employer We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. Selection decisions are based on job-related factors. #J-18808-Ljbffr