Director of Operations
About The Position
Reliance Fluid Technologies is seeking a Director of Operations to lead manufacturing, blending, packaging, warehousing, and distribution operations across three growing facilities in Milan, MI, Niagara Falls, NY, and Buffalo, NY. This role reports directly to the President and is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and customer-focused operations that support current and future growth. The ideal candidate will be energized by leading change, developing leaders, improving processes, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. This position offers a unique combination of strategic leadership and operational influence, with opportunities to shape strategy, influence company growth, and make a lasting impact.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Operations, Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field (required)
- 12+ years of progressive manufacturing or operations leadership experience (required)
- Significant experience leading managers and supervisors in industrial or manufacturing environments
- Demonstrated success leading multi-site operations
- Strong expertise in KPI management, operational excellence, budgeting, and capital planning
- Experience driving organizational change and continuous improvement initiatives
- Strong business acumen with an ability to make data-driven decisions
Nice To Haves
- Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification (preferred)
- Experience in specialty chemicals
- Experience in lubricants
- Experience in blending and packaging operations
- Experience in bulk liquid handling
- Experience in process manufacturing
- Experience in industrial distribution
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership for manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and distribution operations across multiple locations
- Drive safety, quality, productivity, service, and cost performance throughout the organization
- Establish accountability through KPI management and performance metrics
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean principles, 6S, and structured problem-solving methodologies
- Improve equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and asset utilization
- Develop and mentor site leaders, managers, and supervisors
- Manage operating budgets and capital investment plans
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Customer Success, and executive leadership teams
- Ensure operational execution aligns with customer expectations and company growth objectives
Benefits
- Eligible for annual bonus based on company and individual performance
- Paid weekly every Thursday
- 401(k) with employer match - no waiting period
- 8 paid holidays plus generous PTO accruals
- Company-paid STD, LTD, and life insurance
- Supportive, family-owned culture with company-sponsored events and outings
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
