Director of Operations

Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of manufacturing and operational performance within a high-volume production environment. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership across production, maintenance, warehousing, safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Director of Operations is accountable for driving operational excellence, improving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, and ensuring business objectives are achieved safely, on time, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day manufacturing and operational activities to ensure production, quality, cost, and delivery goals are consistently achieved.
• Develop and execute operational strategies that improve productivity, efficiency, throughput, and overall plant performance.
• Manage labor utilization, staffing levels, workforce planning, and operational resources to support business demands.
• Drive a culture of accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Lead, mentor, and develop managers, supervisors, and functional leaders across operations, maintenance, warehouse, quality, and safety.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve operational results.
• Partner with cross-functional teams including engineering, supply chain, quality, finance, and human resources to support organizational objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, regulatory, and company policies.
• Oversee inventory management, production planning, and material flow to support customer demand and operational efficiency.
• Identify and implement process improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and operational best practices.
• Manage operational budgets and maintain accountability for labor, materials, maintenance, and facility expenses.
• Utilize ERP systems, reporting tools, and data analytics to drive informed decision-making and performance improvements.
• Support capital projects, facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and operational transformation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within manufacturing, distribution, industrial, or operations environments.
• Proven experience leading large teams in a fast-paced operational setting.
• Demonstrated success improving productivity, safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Experience managing multiple departments and cross-functional teams.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, continuous improvement, and operational excellence methodologies.
• Experience with workforce planning, employee development, and performance management.
• Background working in union, non-union, or mixed labor environments is a plus.
• Experience overseeing budgets, capital expenditures, and financial performance metrics.
• Proficiency with ERP systems, production reporting tools, and Microsoft Office applications.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Leadership

• Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing teams.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and employee development skills.
• Results-driven leader with a hands-on management style.

Operational Excellence

• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, process improvement, and performance management.
• Ability to balance strategic planning with daily operational execution.
• Experience implementing systems, processes, and operational controls that drive sustainable results.

Problem Solving & Decision Making

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to identify root causes, develop solutions, and execute improvements.
• Comfortable operating in dynamic environments with changing priorities.

Communication

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and influence at all levels of the organization.

Technical & Systems

• Experience utilizing ERP, MRP, WMS, and business reporting systems.
• Strong computer skills including Excel, Word, Outlook, and data analysis tools.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing, distribution, or industrial environment with exposure to varying temperatures, machinery, and operational activity.
• Frequent interaction with production, warehouse, maintenance, and office personnel.
• Ability to walk production floors and operational areas for extended periods.

Key Details

• Location: On-site in Chicago, IL
• Compensation: $160,000 to $175,000 + eligibility to earn bonus
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) available for enrollment

If this position interests you and you fit the requirements, apply today! Thank you, Rachel Stewart LaSalle Network #LI-RS3

LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.