Chief Operations Officer

The Organization

Nazdar was founded in 1922 in the back of a small store in Chicago and later, in 1977, was purchased by TEI. Nazdar, headquartered in Shawnee, KS, (a suburb of Kansas City) is a leading global manufacturer of wide format digital, screen printing and flexographic inks and a distributor ofprinting supplies and equipment. Nazdar is both a manufacturer and distributor and brands these activities separately to the market.

Nazdar distributes our manufactured products along with equipment, ink and supplies from other top brands in the digital and screen-printing industries, through distribution facilities located across the United States, Mexico and Central America.

Nazdar's manufactured products are sold globally through a network of distributors (including Nazdar SourceOne), direct, and through private label agreements. With significant research skills, manufacturing technology, an international distribution network and dedicated employees, we are committed to providing excellent customer service and technical support to the global markets we serve.

Thrall Enterprises, Inc. (TEI) our parent company, is a family-owned holding company headquartered in Chicago, IL. The Thrall family has been in business since founder A. J. Thrall began the repair and manufacture of rail cars in 1916. Over the years, Thrall Car became a significant force in the rail car industry and in other business activities.

TEI began operating as an independent company in 1972 and has grown organically and through acquisitions. The Company's main operating subsidiary is Nazdar Company (Nazdar). In addition, the Company's investment portfolio consists of investments in real estate, marketable securities, and investments in other operating companies.

The Opportunity

Nazdar is seeking to recruit a new Vice President, Chief Operations Officer (COO) to drive operational excellence, innovation, and growth across the company's Manufacturing, Distribution, Supply Chain, and Technical and Customer Service teams. The COO will be a strategic partner to the Leadership Team, responsible for setting and executing long-term goals, strategies, and policies that position Nazdar as an industry leader. The COO will be responsible for the order to delivery value stream.

The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record of operational leadership in manufacturing and distribution environments, with deep expertise in process improvement, team development, and financial management. The COO will champion continuous improvement initiatives, foster a culture of integrity and innovation, and ensure alignment of departmental objectives with Nazdar's commercial and organizational goals. The COO should drive transformational change.

This executive reports directly to the President and CEO and will oversee domestic and international operations, leading high-performing teams and driving talent management, succession planning, and organizational design.

Essential Job Functions

Examples of

Strategic

Work in this Role:

• Shaping and executing Nazdar's strategic plan in collaboration with executive leadership.
• Advising on long-range planning and ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Responsible for the order to delivery value stream. Providing direct leadership to Manufacturing, Distribution, Supply Chain, Customer Service, and Technical Services teams.
• Analyzing and reporting on strategic and operational metrics to drive continuous improvement, quality enhancement, and waste reduction.
• Leading multi-location manufacturing, distribution, service, and fulfillment models to optimize efficiency, quality, and service levels.
• Championing process improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Conducting comprehensive financial analysis to identify opportunities for service improvement, profitability, and cost control.
• Representing Nazdar at industry events and promoting a positive brand image.
• Ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Key Selection Criteria:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, International Business, or related field required.
• Master's degree or postgraduate studies preferred.

Experience and Key Skills Required:

• Minimum 15 years in process manufacturing, with progressive leadership roles and senior-level P&L responsibility.
• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, and service teams strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, operational analysis, and process improvement.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRM systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Licenses/Certificates:
• Valid driver's license; subject to annual DMV check.

Nazdar Leadership Competencies:

Must possess and have a proven record of accomplishment related to Nazdar Leadership Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking

• Communication

• Credibility

• Organizational Leadership and Development

• Decision Making/Judgment

• Collaboration

Critical Skills for Success:

• Positive Attitude

• Forward Thinking (proactive)

• Written and Verbal Communication Skills

• Attention to Detail

• Team Building Approach

• Fit with Nazdar Culture

Other Personal Characteristics:

• Action-oriented and driven to create value and impact.

• Passionate about driving improvements and deploying best practices within a performance-based environment.

• Self-starter requiring minimal oversight.

• Able to work under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Collaborative across organizations; able to scale leadership and communication styles to all levels.

• Maintains high levels of personal and professional integrity and ethics.

About Kansas City:

This position is based in the Kansas City Metro area, a city consistently recognized for its business-friendly environment and quality of life. Named one of Forbes' "Top 50 Best Places for Business and Careers," Kansas City is known for its vibrant, diverse community, making it an attractive place for professionals and families alike. The city has earned numerous accolades for its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere.

Often referred to as "The Silicon Prairie," Kansas City has become a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological development. In 2018, Wendover-Insight ranked the region as the "No. 1 City for Business Growth," further solidifying its reputation as a leader in business advancement.

Known as the "City of Fountains," Kansas City offers rich cultural experiences, with world-class venues such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which was named one of the 15 most spectacular concert halls in the world. Kansas City is also renowned for its urban entertainment, award-winning cuisine, and major sports teams. Home to the Chiefs, Royals, and Sporting Kansas City, the region boasts modern and renovated stadiums for fans to enjoy.

For more information about the region, explore these helpful resources:

• Kansas City Convention & Visitors Association:

www.visitkc.com

• Kansas City Area Development Council:

www.thinkkc.com