Director of Operations

Director of Operations (Confidential – Manufacturing Environment)

Location: Oxford, North Carolina
Job Type: Full-Time | Salaried Exempt

Overview

A well-established and growing manufacturing organization is seeking a Director of Operations to join its executive leadership team. This role is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day oversight of manufacturing, maintenance, purchasing, and shipping functions.

The ideal candidate will be a results-driven leader with a strong background in operational excellence, process improvement, and team development. This position plays a critical role in driving performance across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity metrics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage cross-functional teams including manufacturing, engineering, maintenance, and plant personnel
• Develop and execute short- and long-term operational strategies aligned with business objectives
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, cost reduction, and quality enhancement
• Establish and monitor KPIs (productivity, scrap, rework, on-time delivery) and implement corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and industry regulations, including ISO 9001:2015 standards
• Oversee plant operations in alignment with company policies and procedures
• Direct supply chain activities including sourcing strategy, vendor selection, and contract negotiations
• Manage budgeting, cost controls, and financial performance of operational departments
• Conduct ROI analysis for capital expenditures (equipment, tooling, etc.)
• Lead workforce planning efforts including hiring, training, development, and succession planning
• Partner with engineering on new product development and process implementation
• Promote accountability through clear performance expectations and leadership practices

Additional Duties

• Analyze and improve business processes to enhance operational efficiency
• Conduct performance evaluations and lead employee development initiatives
• Facilitate team meetings to communicate goals and review performance
• Maintain accurate production data, including cycle times and capacity planning
• Support cross-functional initiatives that drive business growth

Qualifications

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems
• Proven success with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
• Solid understanding of cost accounting and financial analysis
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and drive measurable results
• Knowledge of automotive-based quality systems preferred
• Strong understanding of machining and assembly operations
• Ability to analyze production capacity, cycle times, and constraints
• Willingness to travel up to 15% (domestic and international)

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
• Minimum 7+ years of leadership experience with direct accountability for operational performance

Why This Opportunity?

• Executive-level visibility and impact
• Opportunity to drive meaningful operational improvements
• Collaborative leadership environment
• Competitive compensation and benefits package