Operations Director jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Job Title: Director of Operations

Company: Nemco Food Equipment

Location: Hicksville, OH

Company Information:

Nemco is a family owned business, since 1976, that manufactures food equipment for the fast food, convenience, restaurant, and entire foodservice industry. Nemco strives to be an employer of choice by focusing on six core values and a positive, family culture.  Our six core values are:  Respect Others, Do the Right Thing, Embrace Learning, Be Agile, WOW Customers and Create Awesome.

 Job Description:

This role reports directly to the President and is on the leadership team. This position is responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing processes, and ensuring the efficient production of high-quality products while maintaining a strong focus on safety and cost control. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in manufacturing operations management and a proven track record of achieving operational goals. The expectation is for the candidate to have a full business mindset, with an understanding of the sales side and how that drives the operations department, as well as how operational activities drive financial transactions within the business. In addition, 2/3 of all Nemco employees work in the operations department, so there is a big focus on finding the candidate with a positive attitude, growth mindset, energy for the job, and someone who embodies our core value.

 Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Collaborate with the executive team to develop and execute the company's operational strategy in alignment with overall business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Identify opportunities for capacity and efficiency improvements.

Operational Excellence:

• Oversee all manufacturing, production, and supply chain operations to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of products.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance, quality, and safety standards.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and best practices to optimize processes and reduce waste.

Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team, including production managers, supply chain managers, and other key personnel.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Ensure that all products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Implement and maintain quality management systems to monitor and improve product quality.

Cost Control and Budgeting:

• Develop and manage the operations budget, working to optimize costs while maintaining product quality.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives to improve profitability.

Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee procurement, inventory management, and supplier relationships to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply chain.
• Develop and maintain contingency plans for supply chain disruptions.

Safety and Environmental Compliance:

• Prioritize and promote a culture of safety throughout the organization.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives.

Communication and Reporting:

• Provide regular updates to the executive team and stakeholders on operational performance, challenges, and opportunities.
• Prepare and present reports, data, and analysis to support decision-making.

Risk Management:

• Identify operational risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Plan for business continuity and disaster recovery.

 Qualifications:

• Proven track record of at least 10 years in manufacturing operations management, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and supply chain management.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership and team-building skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

This position offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape the operational strategy of a growing manufacturing company. This position will play a key role in driving the company's success, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining a strong commitment to quality and safety.