Director of Manufacturing Operations (Onsite)

Reports to: General Manager, North America

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Director of Manufacturing Operations to lead a high‑volume precision machining site and drive excellence across production, quality, workforce development, and operational performance. This role requires a hands‑on, floor‑focused leader who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, balances tactical execution with strategic planning, and can confidently represent the organization to executive leadership and customers.

The Director will oversee a large manufacturing workforce, ensure consistent delivery of high‑quality products, and champion continuous improvement initiatives that support scalability and business growth.

What You’ll Do

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to achieve targets in delivery, quality, cost, and safety.
• Drive accountability for operational KPIs, including on‑time delivery, material performance, quality metrics, and labor utilization.
• Maintain safe, efficient, and compliant production processes across all shifts.
• Ensure strong daily presence on the production floor — approximately 80% of the workday — to support employees, verify data, observe workflow, and reinforce operating discipline.

Strategic Execution & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and implement strategies that support operational scalability and long‑term business growth.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across production, quality, and material flow to enhance throughput, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Establish and monitor site metrics, ensuring operational transparency and alignment with organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities for equipment, tooling, and infrastructure investments to expand capacity and support demand.

Leadership & Workforce Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of managers, supervisors, and support staff.
• Oversee hiring, training, and performance management for a workforce of 250+ employees.
• Build a culture of accountability, engagement, and respectful communication at all levels.
• Apply a leadership style rooted in authority, empathy, and adaptability, adjusting approach based on audience and situation.

Communication & Executive Reporting

• Report directly to the General Manager and provide concise, accurate, data‑driven insights without requiring follow‑up or clarification.
• Prepare executive‑ready summaries, dashboards, and performance updates that translate complex technical data into simple, actionable information.
• Represent the General Manager during absences, customer engagements, and cross‑functional leadership meetings.
• Participate in global and cross‑regional meetings; this includes occasional evening meetings (typically early evening, once weekly) due to time‑zone differences. Remote attendance for these meetings is acceptable.

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Ensure customer expectations for delivery, quality, and responsiveness are consistently met or exceeded.
• Support customer visits, business reviews, and escalation management as needed.
• Communicate priorities, performance, and strategy with clarity and consistency across the site.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 15+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally in precision machining, CNC operations, advanced manufacturing, or similar environments.
• 8+ years of progressive leadership experience managing managers and large teams.
• Experience leading teams of 250+ employees in a fast‑paced, complex production environment.
• Strong background in CNC machining, machining operations, or cleanroom/technical manufacturing.
• Proven record of driving operational improvements, scaling operations, and leading change initiatives.
• Ability to communicate clearly, factually, and concisely at all levels — from the production floor to executive leadership.
• Leadership style that balances confidence, humility, and consistency while maintaining respect and professionalism at all times.

Why This Role Matters

This position plays a critical role in strengthening operational performance, improving customer satisfaction, and developing a high‑performing workforce. You will serve as both the operational leader of the site and the primary backup for the General Manager, influencing both day‑to‑day execution and long‑term strategic direction.