Director of Operations

The purpose of the Director of Operations is to be responsible for the overall performance, coordination, and leadership of the manufacturing facility. This role ensures that all 0n-site functions – including production, safety, quality, and continuous improvement – operate effectively and in alignment with corporate strategy. The Director of Operations acts as the single point of accountability for the site, overseeing the plant manager and coordinating with corporate shared services (Finance, HR, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Engineering) to deliver strong business results. This is a full time in office position in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada with a base salary plus 20% EBITA bonus potential paid in January for the year prior.ResponsibilitiesServe as the primary leader of the site, accountable for safety, quality, delivery, cost, compliance, and cultureLead, coach, and develop the Plant Manager and site leadership teamEnsure alignment of site operations with corporate strategy, goals, and KPI’sAct as the liaison for corporate functions (Finance, HR, Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, IT, Engineering)Ensure site needs and priorities are effectively communicated to and supported by shared servicesCoordinate cross-functional initiatives and resolve conflicts between operations and corporate prioritiesOversee production performance through the plant manager, driving efficiency, throughput, and continuous improvementChampion lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence initiativesEnsure compliance with all regulatory, environmental, health and safety requirementsPartner with corporate finance to manage site-level budgets, forecasts, and performance metricsMonitor and report on site-level P&L drivers, identifying risks and opportunitiesSupport strategic projects such as capacity expansions, new product introductions, and capital investmentsDrive a high-performance culture rooted in safety, accountability, and teamworkPartner with corporate HR to ensure effective talent management, succession planning, and employee engagement at the siteRepresent the company positively within the local community and with external stakeholdersQualificationsBachelors degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field (Masters preferred)10+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations, with at least 5 years in a senior site leadership roleProven experience managing through others (Plant Managers or equivalent) in a multi-site or corporate-shared-services environmentStrong financial and business acumen; experience with P&L accountability preferredDemonstrated success in leading cultural change, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaborationExcellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills