Director of Operations

The Director of Operations will lead our client’s EMEA manufacturing operations, driving operational excellence, safety, quality, delivery, and continuous improvement. This role is accountable for implementing best-in-class processes, strengthening customer experience, improving supply chain resilience, advancing manufacturing capabilities, and fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and teamwork.Core ResponsibilitiesLead and optimize daily operations across EMEA manufacturing sites to achieve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity targets.Own financial and operational performance, including throughput, KPIs, cost management, and working capital (inventory, A/R, A/P).Implement daily accountability systems to monitor performance and address issues in real time.Ensure successful product launches by aligning manufacturing and supply chain requirements with engineering and commercial teams.Build flexible, build-to-order supply and production capabilities to support customer demand.Develop high-performing teams through inclusive leadership, talent development, and proactive labor relations.Collaborate across HR, Finance, Engineering, Sales, and Marketing to ensure execution of business plans.Champion continuous improvement, Lean Six Sigma, digital manufacturing, and data-driven decision-making.Present operational performance and strategic initiatives to executive leadership and stakeholders.Key CompetenciesProven leadership of engineered-to-order manufacturing operations within matrix organizations.Progression from plant-level to multi-site operational leadership roles.Strong KPI and results orientation with experience building transformational roadmaps.Expertise in Lean Six Sigma, Agile, digital manufacturing, and operational financials.Inclusive leadership style; demonstrated success in building high-performing teams.Skilled in cross-functional partnership and executive-level communication.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering preferred.15+ years of global operations experience in manufacturing, OEM, or B2B environments.Strong strategic and executional capabilities.Hands-on, servant leadership style with presence on the shop floor (Gemba).Proficient in English; strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.Familiarity with Lean, Agile, and digital operations systems.Our client offers relocation assistance and notice-period flexibility.