Director of Operations

Director of Operations, Global Specialty Chemicals Manufacturer (Multi-site role)

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Cincinnati, OH Metropolitan Area
Join a Market Leader in the Global Chemical Industry
This is a senior leadership opportunity within a highly respected international business, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service. Reporting directly to SVP level, you will play a pivotal role in leading operational performance, developing high-performing teams, and driving continuous improvement across the site.
POSITION SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced, results-oriented Director of Operations with direct overview of the the main site and accountability for an additional site to lead and optimize manufacturing performance in this division. This role is responsible for ensuring each site operates efficiently, safely, and profitably driving performance through standardization, strong leadership, and a disciplined focus on KPIs such as cost per pound, on-time in full (OTIF), first time right (FTR), and working capital.The ideal candidate is a strategic operator with the ability to lead site managers, develop cross-site initiatives, and collaborate across functions (supply chain, quality, commercial) to deliver value to both the business and our customers.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Provide strategic and tactical leadership to site Operations Managers across multiple manufacturing locationsOwn and deliver key performance metrics:Cost per pound: Drive operational efficiency, waste reduction, and labor productivityOTIF %: Ensure schedule adherence and responsiveness to customer demandFirst Time Right (FTR): Partner with Quality and R&D to reduce rework and defectsWorking Capital: Monitor inventory levels, production reporting accuracy, and raw material flowStandardize processes, KPIs, and reporting across sites to align with divisional goalsDevelop, mentor, and hold accountable site leadership teamsIdentify and share best practices across sites to improve throughput, quality, and costCollaborate with supply chain, finance, research and development labs, and commercial teams to align operations with demand and financial goalsLead cross-site operational reviews, audits, and continuous improvement effortsSupport capital planning, equipment upgrades, and lean transformation initiativesEnsure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance across all facilities
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
10+ years in manufacturing, with 5+ years in multi-site or senior plant leadership preferredExperience in batch manufacturing preferred (speciality chemicals, formulated products, or similar batch manufacturing environments)Strong financial acumen and data-driven decision-making abilityDeep knowledge of lean manufacturing, KPI systems, and process standardizationExperience managing site-level P&L performance or influencing operational cost driversFamiliarity with ISO 9001 or related quality systemsProven leadership and team development experienceExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsWillingness to travel regularly between sites
What Success Looks Like
Reduced and stabilized cost per pound across all sitesConsistent OTIF > 95% and improving FTR performanceSimplified, standardized operations across the networkEngaged, accountable leadership at each siteImproved responsiveness to customer demand and reduced lead timesLower working capital through tighter inventory and production control
WHY JOIN?
Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day oneShort-term and long-term disability benefitsCompetitive 401(k) plan with company matchCompany-paid life insurance
Join a global organization that values safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement, where your work directly impacts customer success.
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If you are an experienced manufacturing leader looking to take the next step in your career with a world-class chemical manufacturer, we would be delighted to hear from you.Click Apply Now to find out more or to submit your application in confidence.
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