Director of Operations

Safran • Rockford, IL

8d

About The Position

As part of the GBU Actuation within Safran Electronics & Defense, our Rockford site designs, manufactures, and supports advanced flight control systems for major aerospace programs. Recently integrated into the Safran Group, Rockford is in a key phase of transformation to achieve operational excellence and full autonomy within a demanding international context. We are seeking a senior and autonomous Director of Operations. Reporting directly to the General Manager of the Rockford entity, you will drive operational performance, manage supplier relationships, and build a high-performance Operations organization aligned with Safran's standards. This permanent position offers a unique opportunity to shape and lead the operational future of a strategic Safran site.

Requirements

• Senior manager with recognized success in Operations management, including experience in manufacturing, assembly, industrial methods, and supply chain.
• 10 plus Years of Experience in related field.
• Demonstrated experience in supplier relationship management and performance improvement in an international, industrial context.
• In-depth understanding of the aerospace industry, its processes, and its high standards.
• Proven ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams; strong leadership and people development skills.
• Capable of building trusted relationships with both customers and suppliers, and representing the company's interests effectively.
• Methodical, structured, and data-driven approach—essential for successful supply chain and operations management.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills; fluency in English required, French is a plus.

Nice To Haves

• Experience within aerospace industry a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead all operational activities within the site's scope: supply chain management (planning, logistics, inventory), procurement, and performance of suppliers.
• Manage the performance of main supplier and partner for OE and for aftermarket activity
• Implement structured routines, robust daily management, and performance recovery plans to meet program objectives in quality, cost, and delivery.
• Build and nurture trust-based, performance-oriented relationships with key suppliers essential to the success of the site.
• In a subsequent phase, oversee the planning and secure execution of industrial transfer projects for products currently manufactured externally, to Safran sites.
• Ensure the implementation of effective buffers, risk management strategies, and transparent communication with customers and internal stakeholders to protect operational performance and ensure continuity.
• Define, strategy, structure, and deploy the target Operations organization for the Rockford site, covering all activities within your perimeter.
• Recruit, develop, and coach a team focused on operational excellence, autonomy, and capability to drive performance within Safran's global standards.
• Establish clear KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives to embed a culture of accountability, agility, and high standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees