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 drive operational excellence, develop leaders, improve performance, and align 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.)