Operations Director

Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America — and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple:
Keep the world reading.

Location: 2347 Kratzer Rd. Harrisonburg, VA 22802

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for plant operations including production, while maintaining EHS and quality compliance.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet or exceed business objectives in safety, quality, productivity, on-time delivery, and cost management.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing operations team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Ensure adherence to all regulatory, safety, and company policies and procedures.
• Provide tactical oversight for production planning and scheduling to meet customer demand and inventory management objectives.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and operational efficiency across all functional areas.
• Lead plant KPI development, tracking, and reporting; regularly communicate performance to senior leadership and plant personnel.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with EHS, quality, maintenance/engineering, HR, supply chain, finance, and customer service teams to achieve operational goals.
• Champion lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate as a key contributor in strategic planning and decision-making processes for plant performance, capacity expansion, and capital investment.
• Serve as critical member of the site leadership team, with the opportunity to step into higher levels of responsibility as readiness is demonstrated.

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 8-12+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, including 5+ years in a senior management role.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale manufacturing operations and achieving operational targets.
• Strong leadership, people management, and team development skills.
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies, and operational best practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Financial and budget management experience.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems, production planning, and manufacturing technology.

• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401k with company match
• Career growth opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee appreciation & recognition programs

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

We’re also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact