Director of Operations – Multi-Site Manufacturing

Retained Search | Midwest + Southeast | Precision / CNC / Custom Manufacturing

A privately held, growth-focused manufacturer is seeking a hands-on, people-first Director of Operations to lead design and production across two U.S. facilities. This is a critical, high-impact role overseeing the full lifecycle of custom, complex manufacturing operations—design, scheduling, purchasing, CNC machining, assembly, sampling, and shipping/receiving.

We’re looking for a builder. Someone who develops strong teams, drives continuous improvement, and elevates performance across every function they touch.

What You’ll Lead

• Set the operational strategy—short-term execution + long-term planning

• Ensure high-quality, efficient, safe manufacturing operations

• Manage budgets, staffing levels, materials, and overall productivity

• Lead and mentor departmental managers; build a culture of accountability

• Teach and deploy Lean tools at all levels

• Reduce scrap, improve throughput, and optimize flow

• Spearhead major projects: plant layouts, capital equipment installations, and process transformations

• Act as the bridge between leadership, teams, and the manufacturing floor

What You Bring

• A people-centered leadership style that builds trust and performance

• 10+ years in manufacturing operations; proven results driving improvements

• 5+ years leading a large segment or full plant operation

• Strong Lean expertise and enterprise-level process improvement experience

• Solid technical foundation; CNC knowledge strongly preferred

• Excellent communicator, problem-solver, and decision-maker

Role Details

• Full-time, multi-site leadership role

• Travel up to 25%

• Mix of office + hands-on floor presence

• Competitive compensation package

Ideal Background

• BA/BS in Industrial, Mechanical, Business, or related technical field

• Experience in custom or contract manufacturing

• Comfortable leading both strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations