Head of Operations & Business Management

Full-Time | Manufacturing Leadership

Dakota Bodies is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Value Stream Manager / Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations and drive operational excellence across assigned production areas. This role is responsible for the safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and continuous improvement of the value stream while developing a high-performing team culture focused on accountability, engagement, and customer satisfaction

.The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, possesses strong business acumen, and has a proven ability to inspire teams, improve processes, and achieve operational goals through Lean Manufacturing principles

Build a culture of accountability, engagement, respect, and continuous improvement.

Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and succession planning activities.

Promote employee development through training, mentoring, and leadership growth opportunities.

Direct daily manufacturing operations to ensure safety, quality, delivery, and productivity targets are achieved.

Monitor production performance and implement corrective actions to address gaps.

Ensure effective utilization of labor, equipment, materials, and resources.

Safety & Compliance

Champion a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with all company policies and regulatory requirements.

Investigate incidents and implement preventive measures to reduce risk and improve workplace safety.

Quality & Customer Focus

Ensure products meet customer specifications and company quality standards.

Partner with Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to resolve issues and improve processes.

Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions to reduce defects and improve customer satisfaction.

Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives including waste reduction, 5S, Kaizen events, visual management, and process standardization.

Utilize key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify opportunities for improvement and measure success.

Support strategic projects that improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.

Planning & Business Performance

Manage production schedules and resources to meet customer demand and business objectives.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure material availability and smooth production flow.

Analyze operational data and provide recommendations to senior leadership.

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field; Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

Excellent communication, coaching, and leadership skills.

Ability to analyze data, solve complex problems, and make sound business decisions.

Experience in fabrication, welding, metal manufacturing, or truck body production.

Lean, Six Sigma, or related continuous improvement certification.

Experience managing multiple departments or a complete value stream.

Consistent achievement of production, quality, and delivery goals.

Continuous improvement culture that drives business growth and customer satisfaction.

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