Director of Operations

Your Opportunity is Here with HSM • Hickory, NC

3d

About The Position

As the Director of Operations, you’ll serve as a strategic and hands-on leader, ensuring consistent performance across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people development.

Requirements

• 8+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing and/or engineering
• Demonstrated success leading multi-site operations
• Strong track record driving metrics-based performance and continuous improvement
• Experience leading teams through growth, change, and transformation
• Exceptional operational planning, execution, and analytical capabilities
• Ability to build trust and influence across all levels—from plant floor to executive leadership
• Clear, direct communicator who motivates teams and drives accountability
• Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Engineering, Business, or related field (required)

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree and/or Lean/Six Sigma certifications (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Lead Multi-Site Manufacturing Performance
• Support and coach Plant Managers to consistently meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives
• Implement standardized, scalable processes across facilities
• Monitor KPIs and performance dashboards; lead action plans to close gaps
• Support footprint optimization initiatives including expansions, relocations, and consolidations
• Drive Continuous Improvement & Manufacturing Excellence
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and Six Sigma initiatives
• Lead structured problem-solving to eliminate waste and inefficiencies
• Partner on equipment upgrades, process improvements, and layout optimization
• Develop High-Performing Leadership Teams
• Coach and develop plant leadership to foster ownership, accountability, and engagement
• Identify talent gaps and lead succession planning in partnership with HR
• Reinforce recognition and accountability systems tied to performance and safety
• Partner Cross-Functionally
• Collaborate with Engineering on NPI readiness and process alignment
• Work closely with Quality and Sales to align operational capability with customer expectations
• Contribute to capital planning and ROI evaluation for operational investments
• Champion Safety & Compliance
• Enforce company-wide safety programs and EHS compliance
• Partner with site leaders on risk mitigation, emergency preparedness, and incident prevention

Benefits

• Health & Wellness : Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, including an innovative global healthcare option for qualified participants.
• Retire :â 401(k) with company match, fully vested from day one.
• Paid Time Off : Competitive PTO: 3 Weeks of Vacation + 9 company paid holidays.
• On-Site Medical Clinics : Free for you and covered dependents.
• Teladoc : 24/7 access with no copay.
• Professional Development : Tuition reimbursement, professional development assistance and career growth opportunities.
• Discounts : Enjoy discounts with HSM partners, including Dollywood Parks & Resort, Verizon Wireless, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees