Head of Operations & Business Management

Director of Operations
Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead operational transformation within a manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on stabilizing operations, improving performance, and building sustainable systems that drive long-term operational excellence.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished manufacturing leader with a proven track record of leading operational turnarounds, developing high-performing teams, and implementing management systems that improve safety, quality, productivity, delivery, and cost performance. This role requires a visible, floor-oriented leader who partners closely with supervisors and frontline employees to identify root causes, remove barriers, and deliver measurable business results.
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Lead all aspects of manufacturing operations with responsibility for safety, quality, delivery, productivity, cost, and operational performance.
Evaluate current operations, identify performance gaps, and develop strategies to improve efficiency and operational stability.
Build a culture of accountability through consistent leadership, coaching, and performance management.
Maintain a visible presence on the production floor to support teams, resolve operational challenges, and reinforce operational standards.
Continuous Improvement Lead operational improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing and structured problem-solving methodologies.
Implement and maintain daily management systems, including performance metrics, visual management, action tracking, and escalation processes.
Drive root cause analysis and corrective action activities to eliminate recurring operational issues.
Standardize processes and improve workflow efficiency across manufacturing operations.
Promote continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Financial & Performance Management Manage operational budgets and monitor key cost drivers, including labor efficiency, scrap, overtime, inventory, maintenance, and production costs.
Develop business cases and prioritize capital improvement opportunities that support operational objectives.
Monitor key performance indicators and implement corrective actions to achieve operational goals.
Analyze operational data to support informed business decisions and improve plant performance.
Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with engineering, maintenance, quality, supply chain, planning, finance, and human resources to improve overall operational performance.
Build high-performing teams through accountability, training, and continuous development.
Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 12 years of progressive manufacturing or operations leadership experience.
Demonstrated experience leading manufacturing operations with responsibility for safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, financial performance, and people leadership.
Proven success leading operational turnaround, transformation, or performance improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment.
Strong experience implementing Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
Experience establishing daily management systems, visual performance metrics, and operational accountability processes.
Preferred Experience within precision manufacturing, engineered products, aerospace, defense, semiconductor, energy, industrial manufacturing, or other highly regulated industries.
Strong financial management experience, including budgeting, cost analysis, capital planning, and operational forecasting.
Advanced degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or Operations Management.
Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement certifications.

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