Director of Operations
Location: Sioux Falls, SD (relocation provided)
Job Type: Full-Time On-site | Executive Leadership
About Our Client
Our client is a leading manufacturer and distributor of consumer products. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and superior service, they have established a nationwide distribution network with strategically located DC's. Their mission is to provide pet professionals with high-quality products and unmatched delivery speed—ensuring that groomers have everything they need to succeed.
Position Overview
As the Director of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the operational strategy and efficiency. This leadership position is responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing multi-site distribution, streamlining materials management, and enhancing the supply chain. You will lead cross-functional teams and implement cost-effective, scalable solutions that support the company's growth objectives while maintaining exceptional service levels.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced operations leader with a strong background in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management to make a lasting impact in a fast-growing industry.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence
- Define and execute the strategic direction for operations, aligning with company-wide goals.
- Develop scalable and efficient operational processes to support business expansion.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging Lean Manufacturing and companywide process improvement practices to optimize productivity and resource utilization.
Multi-Site Distribution & Supply Chain Optimization
- Oversee and enhance multi-site distribution operations, ensuring seamless logistics and on-time delivery to customers nationwide.
- Implement best-in-class inventory control and fulfillment strategies to maximize efficiency.
- Optimize materials sourcing to balance quality, cost, and supplier reliability.
Manufacturing Efficiency
- Ensure internal manufacturing focuses on waste reduction, optimizing workflows, minimizing downtime, and leveraging technology where possible for continued revenue growth.
Budgeting & Financial Performance
- Develop and manage the operations budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings, efficiency gains, and risk mitigation while maintaining operational excellence.
- Oversee capital expenditure planning and investment strategies.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Recruit, hire, and train management-level staff to support company growth.
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and track operational success through data-driven decision-making.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations governing manufacturing, distribution, and workplace safety.
- Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to address potential operational disruptions.
Quality Systems / Quality Control
- Improve accountability and development of quality procedures and processes, including adoption and use of “Good Manufacturing Processes” (GMP), ensuring product quality meets customer requirements.
Qualifications & Experience
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
Experience
- 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing. Ideal to have experience with warehouse and distribution.
- Proven track record of successfully managing multi-site plants and/or distribution networks.
- Understanding of materials management, procurement, and supplier negotiations.
- Experience leading process improvement initiatives (Lean Manufacturing).
Key Skills
- Visionary leadership with the ability to drive operational strategy.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP/WMS software.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
Why Join?
- Industry Leader: Work with a market-leading brand in the pet grooming industry.
- Growth & Innovation: Lead operations in a company that's expanding rapidly.
- Impact-Driven Leadership: Play a key role in shaping the future of the company.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a passionate, results-driven leadership team.
- Equity Ownership potential.