Director of Operations

Scope: 5 Manufacturing Sites (Main site in Hannover)Overview: We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead end-to-end operational performance across our five manufacturing sites, with full responsibility for production, safety, quality, maintenance, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in metal fabrication, machinery manufacturing, or complex industrial production, and a proven track record managing multiple plants simultaneously.Key Responsibilities:Lead and develop Operations teams across 5 sites, ensuring safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity KPIs are achieved.Drive operational excellence, lean manufacturing, and automation initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce waste.Oversee production planning, maintenance, logistics, and engineering to ensure seamless execution across all facilities.Implement and standardize best-practice processes, performance systems, and operational governance.Manage site leadership teams, ensuring capability development, succession planning, and high-performance culture.Lead capacity planning, capital investment projects, and equipment upgrades in alignment with business growth.Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.Partner closely with Supply Chain, Quality, Finance, and HR to align operational strategy with business goals.Requirements:10+ years in industrial manufacturing, with strong experience in metal manufacturing, machining, machining centers, fabrication, or machinery production.Proven multi-site operations leadership (2+ plants minimum).Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, TPM, and continuous improvement.Experience managing operations in high-mix, mid-volume industrial production strongly preferred.Strategic mindset with hands-on leadership style and strong communication skills.Fluent German or English proficiency; both is a MUST.