Director of Operations

About the Opportunity

We're partnering confidentially with a well-established, privately held precision manufacturing company in southeastern Wisconsin to identify a Director of Operations to join its executive leadership team.

This individual will oversee two precision machining facilities and play a key role in driving operational excellence, developing leaders, improving performance, and aligning plant operations with the company's long-term strategic objectives.

This is a succession opportunity, working closely with executive leadership and an experienced operations leader ahead of a planned retirement.

• Lead the daily operations of two manufacturing facilities.
• Drive safety, quality, delivery, and operational performance.
• Develop and mentor managers, supervisors, and production leadership.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, OEE, OOE, and other operational metrics.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles.
• Improve productivity, capacity, and cost performance.
• Oversee operational budgeting and capital investment planning.
• Partner with executive leadership to align operations with business objectives.
• Foster a culture built around accountability, communication, and continuous improvement.

• 10+ years of manufacturing operations experience.
• 5+ years leading manufacturing teams.
• Prior machining or precision manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Proven experience leading multiple departments or facilities.
• Strong Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement background.
• Experience with OEE, OOE, KPIs, ERP/MRP systems, budgeting, and operational planning.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.

This organization has built an outstanding reputation within the precision manufacturing industry through long-term customer relationships, investment in its people, and a commitment to operational excellence.

The incoming Director of Operations will have the opportunity to:

• Join the executive leadership team.
• Lead two established manufacturing operations.
• Drive meaningful operational improvements.
• Influence company strategy.
• Build and develop an experienced operations team.
• Step into a long-term succession opportunity with strong executive support.

Generous base salary commensurate on experience, plus a competitive benefits package.

Southeastern Wisconsin

(Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.)