Operations & Plant ManagementRelocation assistance

Operations Manager

Confidential search · Posted 3 weeks ago

Location: Upper Widwest, US
Compensation: $120k–$160k
Work type: On-site
Employment: Full-time

The Operations Manager is the strategic "force multiplier" for the Chief Operating Officer (COO). In a business that integrates high-precision architectural millwork with production, this role functions as the essential bridge between executive vision and cross-functional execution. You will work directly with each functional area to drive day-to-day continuous improvements, close process gaps, and ensure that both quality standards and long-term strategic initiatives remain on track through rigorous KPI tracking and follow-up.

What you'll own

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (included but not limited to):
• Functional Alignment & KPI Support:
o Partners with functional leads to identify and execute key improvement actions within their specific Critical Focus Areas (see below).
o Lead the weekly KPI reporting and review process, ensuring data-driven accountability across all departments.
o Conduct regular "deep dives" into functional workflows to troubleshoot inefficiencies and implement sustainable, root-cause solutions.
• Continuous Improvement & Quality Assurance:
o Identify and resolve daily cross-functional "bottlenecks" that impede flow or erode profitability.
o Champion a culture of Quality by integrating rigorous QC checkpoints and tracking metrics like Work Order (WO) exceptions and redline generation.
o Monitor production readiness, and communication thereof between all stakeholders (Project management, Shipping, Installation)
• SOP & Process Support:
o Act as a support lead for department heads to document, refine, and standardize Operating Procedures (SOPs).
o Audit "hand-off" points between siloed teams—specifically ensuring seamless coordination between Engineering, Production, and Logistics.
o Maintain the central repository for operational processes, ensuring they are accessible and consistently followed.
• Strategic Initiative Leadership & Tracking:
o Drive progress on long-term corporate initiatives (e.g., Software evaluations, 3rd party partnerships, facility and equipment upgrades, or product line expansions) through rigorous tracking and follow-up.
o Represent the COO at key stakeholder meetings, ensuring the executive’s strategic intent is upheld and that action items are executed by department leads.
o Develop and maintain high-level project roadmaps, providing the COO with a "single source of truth" for all non-project business goals

What we're looking for

REQUIRED SKILLS/COMPETENCIES (included but are not limited to):
• Diverse Industry Acumen: Deep understanding of the architectural millwork.
• Systems Thinking: Ability to see how changes in one functional area impact the entire value chain.
• Influence Without Authority: Proven track record of driving results across diverse teams that do not directly report to you.
• Data Literacy: Expert at synthesizing operational data into actionable executive summaries; comfortable with job costing and WIP (Work in Progress) reports.
• Experience: 8+ years in Operations Management, Corporate Strategy, or a "Chief of Staff" style role in a complex manufacturing environment.
• Strong financial acumen with expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client-facing skills.
• Ability to travel nationally as required (30%).
• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Results-driven with strong financial accountability
• Leadership and team development
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution
• Client relationship management
• Operational excellence and continuous improvement
Education & Experience
• Formal Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Construction Management, or Engineering is required. An MBA or advanced degree in a related field is highly preferred.
• Professional Experience: 8–10+ years of progressive experience in operations management, corporate strategy, or a "Chief of Staff" style role within a complex manufacturing or construction environment.
• Industry Knowledge: Proven experience in the architectural millwork, specialty interiors, or custom fabrication industry is a significant advantage.
• Technical Literacy: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with ERP systems; familiarity with industry software

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