Director of Operations

About the Company

Our client has been a leading North American metal manufacturer in various industrial sectors, including automotive, for over three decades. They operate across multiple facilities and employ over 650+ staff members. Initially starting with a single production unit, the company has significantly expanded its operations, utilizing multiple advanced production lines and comprehensive in-house capabilities. Their facilities are strategically located to enhance service delivery and meet the evolving demands of various industries.

Why does the opportunity exist?

This newly established leadership role is designed to enhance operational efficiency and drive business growth within the company. Reporting to senior management, this position will be crucial in mentoring the team, optimizing operations, and supporting overall profitability. The company is looking for an experienced Operations Executive to oversee two to three key production facilities with approximately 400+ employees, playing a vital role in the leadership team to support ongoing expansion and operational excellence.

Mandate

This is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing and enhancing two major operations with a third one being built. This role is crucial for transforming and optimizing processes, quality, and safety to align with the company’s ambitious short- and long-term strategic goals. This executive will also play a key role in coaching and developing a team of direct reports, ensuring the effective execution of the company’s strategic vision.

The Ideal Candidate :

This role requires a visionary leader with a proven operations and general management track record. This individual has demonstrated success in high-growth environments and is skilled at navigating the complexities of scaling operations. They excel in both strategic thinking and hands-on execution, capable of addressing challenges with resilience and adaptability.

This role demands a leader who embraces uncertainty and identifies opportunities within it. They are adept at balancing high- level strategy with attention to operational details, making a significant impact in their field.

Beyond managerial skills, the ideal candidate is an inspirational figure, adept at leading by example and fostering a culture of excellence within their team. Their leadership style is proactive, positive, and resilient, ensuring their team remains motivated and strives for peak performance even in challenging conditions. The candidate is not just a manager but a dynamic leader with exceptional capabilities in team development and operational excellence, well-suited to drive success in a demanding and evolving industry.

Selection Criteria

• Overall : 12+ years of experience in manufacturing / operations management, preferably in specialized manufacturing processes and finishing operations
• Leadership : Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, fostering a culture of accountability & continuous improvement.
• Continuous Improvement : Operational excellence, change management, process optimization and re-engineering.
• Finance Acumen : Good working knowledge of financial and cost management.
• Education : Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Operations, or related field required