Our client, a global equipment manufacturer, is seeking a Director of Operations to lead the buildout of a world-class lean production system. With a strong background in low-volume, high variability manufacturing, you will work directly with executive leadership to establish visual controls, implement process discipline, and scale a high-performing team. Your ability to coach from the floor rather than manage from the office will be instrumental in creating a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and quality. This is a rare chance to shape operational strategy from the ground up in one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry.
Your Mission
- Play a central role in designing and executing a lean-based, world-class manufacturing system in partnership with the CEO
- Develop and enforce operational standards across safety, quality, production, cost, morale, and workplace cleanliness
- Foster a hands-on leadership style that promotes coaching, engagement, and servant leadership across all levels
- Establish clear performance metrics and visual controls that support a data-driven approach to continuous improvement
- Promote a safety-first culture and uphold core company values throughout the operation
- Implement innovative systems and visual tools to enhance process control and drive on-time delivery
- Lead a quality-focused mindset by embedding accountability and process discipline into daily operations
- Manage budgeting and cost control while delivering regular financial reports and insights
- Ensure adherence to production timelines with urgency and precision, reinforcing a culture where timing matters
- Work closely with other departments and external stakeholders to ensure alignment across operations and commercial goals
- Use structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis to create sustainable solutions and eliminate waste
- Oversee concurrent projects while leveraging team resources to maintain progress and drive outcomes
- Communicate regularly with team members and senior leaders to provide updates, align strategies, and share progress
A Few Qualifiers
- 10+ years in manufacturing leadership within lean-focused organizations
- Bachelor’s degree in business, operations, or a related field is required
- Demonstrated success leading change and building operational systems from scratch
- Hands-on experience with standardized work, KPI management, and problem-solving frameworks
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to lead team briefings and strategic updates
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Experience in low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environments is preferred
- Advanced degrees or lean certifications are preferred
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally
Apply using the link below or feel free to reach out directly to Sydney Russell.
