Director, Value Optimization Office

Oatey Company • Cleveland, OH

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Value Optimization Office (VOO) is responsible for leading enterprise-wide efforts to identify, prioritize, and execute product cost reduction initiatives in support of the Oatey ELEVATE Strategic Plan. This role serves as the central driver of value creation by building a robust pipeline of cost optimization opportunities, establishing prioritization frameworks, and partnering with cross-functional leaders to deliver measurable financial and operational results. The Director, VOO will work closely with Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Finance, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams to translate product cost savings opportunities into actionable projects that strengthen cost competitiveness while maintaining quality, performance, and customer value. The role will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in operations, engineering, supply chain, procurement, finance, or continuous improvement roles.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional cost reduction or value engineering initiatives.
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to assess and validate savings opportunities.
• Proven ability to influence without direct authority and lead through collaboration.
• Experience developing and managing cross-functional teams and direct reports.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, value engineering, or structured improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral).
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred).
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, Supply Chain or equivalent relevant experience in lieu of degree.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead a structured, repeatable process to identify product cost reduction opportunities across materials, design, sourcing, production processes, logistics, and packaging.
• Develop and maintain a prioritized pipeline of value optimization initiatives aligned with strategic goals and financial targets.
• Define criteria to evaluate and prioritize cost reduction opportunities based on value potential, feasibility, risk, and strategic alignment.
• Partner with Finance to validate savings estimates, track benefits realization, and ensure transparency and accountability.
• Provide regular updates on pipeline health, progress, and realized benefits.
• Work with functional leaders to establish cross-functional project teams for approved initiatives.
• Establish and measure Key Performance Indicators designed to track performance (e.g., cost savings, process improvement impact, ROI, efficiency gains).
• Ensure each project has clear ownership, timelines, milestones, and measurable outcomes.
• Serve as a change agent promoting continuous improvement and standardization to achieve sustainable savings.
• Support teams in developing detailed action plans and removing barriers to execution.
• Drive disciplined project management practices to ensure initiatives are delivered on time and within scope.
• Facilitate collaboration and alignment across functions to ensure initiatives are well-integrated and sustainable.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and value-focused decision-making throughout the organization.
• Develop tools, templates, and best practices that enable teams to consistently identify and execute cost improvement opportunities.
• Lead, coach and develop team to ensure goals and objectives are met, supporting the individual growth of each associate.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off programs and paid company holidays to support flexibility and work-life balance
• Annual Discretionary Cash Profit Sharing
• Immediate eligibility and vesting in 401(k), including 100% company match, up to 5% of eligible compensation
• Market leading health insurance including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance offerings for associates and qualified dependents
• Significant company contribution to Health Savings Account with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability income protection coverage at no cost to associates
• Paid Maternity and Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• A strong set of complementary resources to support associate well-being, including resource groups, EAP, and dedicated mental health support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees