Director of Manufacturing

Director Of ManufacturingThe Director of Manufacturing provides strategic leadership and oversight for manufacturing operations across one or multiple facilities. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement while aligning manufacturing strategy with overall business objectives. The Director of Manufacturing leads plant leadership teams, standardizes processes, and drives continuous improvement initiatives to support growth, scalability, and profitability.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic leadership for manufacturing operations across assigned facilitiesDevelop and execute manufacturing strategies aligned with business goalsEnsure consistent performance across plants in safety, quality, delivery, and costLead and develop Plant Managers and manufacturing leadership teamsDrive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives at scaleEstablish and monitor KPIs such as OEE, labor efficiency, scrap, downtime, and on-time deliveryOversee capacity planning, workforce planning, and long-term manufacturing strategyLead capital planning, equipment investments, and facility expansionsPartner with Engineering on process optimization, automation, and new product introductionsCollaborate with Supply Chain on inventory optimization and supplier performanceEnsure compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standardsManage manufacturing budgets and support financial forecastingChampion a culture of accountability, engagement, and operational excellenceRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field (Master's preferred)10+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experienceProven success leading multi-plant or complex manufacturing operationsStrong understanding of industrial manufacturing processes and equipmentDemonstrated experience driving Lean, CI, or operational excellence initiativesExperience managing budgets, capital expenditures, and large teamsStrong leadership, communication, and strategic planning skillsPreferred QualificationsExperience in industrial machinery, heavy equipment, automotive, aerospace, or capital equipment manufacturingLean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certificationExperience leading organizational change and transformation initiativesMulti-site or global manufacturing experienceKey CompetenciesStrategic & Operational LeadershipManufacturing ExcellenceFinancial AcumenChange ManagementTalent DevelopmentCross-Functional CollaborationWork EnvironmentThis role may require regular travel between manufacturing facilities and time on the shop floor.All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.