Senior Director, Cherne Global Operations

Oatey•Shakopee, MN

63d

About The Position

The Senior Director, Cherne Global Operations will provide strategic leadership and oversight for Cherne (part of the Oatey family of brands) manufacturing and distribution sites in Shakopee, Minnesota and Eijsden, Netherlands. This position is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations that meet customer requirements, deliver exceptional quality products, and maintain a strong focus on associate engagement. The role will integrate operational and engineering expertise to drive continuous improvement, innovation, and scalability across global facilities, aligning with Oatey's long-term growth strategies.

Requirements

10+ years of progressively responsible experience managing multi-site and international operations with strong engineering exposure.
5+ years of management/supervisory experience.
Proven track record of leadership in environments with complex manufacturing processes (robotic, injection molding, chemicals, metals).
Deep knowledge of engineering best practices, manufacturing systems, Lean techniques, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.
Strong knowledge of quality systems and global regulatory compliance requirements.
Demonstrated business and financial acumen with the ability to manage complex budgets and deliver strategic results.
Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to lead diverse, cross-cultural teams and resolve conflicts with integrity.
Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP preferred) and advanced PC skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 30%.
Four-year degree in Engineering (highly preferred) or equivalent years of relevant operational leadership experience required.

Nice To Haves

Certified Lean and Six Sigma Black Belt (preferred).
Advanced degree (MBA or MS in Engineering/Operations) strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Ensure the well-being and safety of all associates across all sites.
Maintain all safety requirements and compliance programs, including behavior safety observations, incident reporting, and corrective actions.
Direct two Cherne manufacturing and distribution operations.
Provide leadership for the Engineering and Operations functions, ensuring alignment between product design, manufacturing processes, operational performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Drive safe, efficient, and timely execution of all manufacturing and engineering processes.
Ensure processes, standards, and procedures are followed to deliver world-class quality products.
Provide technical and engineering oversight to optimize manufacturing performance and scalability.
Partner with Engineering, R&D, and New Product Development to integrate engineering solutions into new and improved product development.
Lead capital investment planning and engineering-driven initiatives to support innovation and growth.
Ensure compliance with applicable government regulations and company policies across all operations.
Develop and manage operating budgets for multi-site operations.
Lead 5-year strategic planning, aligning operations and engineering strategies with corporate goals and global opportunities.
Drive productivity improvements, cost savings, and margin enhancement initiatives.
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies across international operations.
Develop and implement standardized best practices to strengthen safety, quality, productivity, and customer service.
Provide empathetic leadership, developing and mentoring diverse cross-functional teams across multiple geographies.
Drive engagement, retention, and succession planning initiatives aligned to company strategy.
Promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing across Oatey's global network of manufacturing and distribution sites.