Director of Operations - job 1 of 2

For over 35 years, Grill Works has taken pride in crafting the finest quality wood flooring accessories and products. With a strong reputation for craftsmanship, precision, and customer service, we continue to grow as a trusted leader in our industry. We’re now seeking an experienced, hands-on Director of Operations to oversee our production facilities and lead a team of approximately 40 employees.

Position Overview

The Director of Operations will be responsible for all aspects of manufacturing operations, including production, engineering, maintenance, safety, and process improvement. This leader will drive operational excellence through continuous improvement initiatives, strong team leadership, and strategic investment planning. The ideal candidate combines technical acumen with strong business leadership and a passion for creating efficient, high-quality manufacturing systems.

• Oversee daily plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production of all Grill Works products.
• Lead and develop a team of employees across production, maintenance, and support functions.
• Implement process improvements to increase productivity, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Evaluate and manage large capital expenditure projects, including equipment purchases, upgrades, and facility enhancements.
• Troubleshoot production and machinery issues; partner with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure minimal downtime.
• Optimize use of ERP and other digital tools to drive operational visibility, forecasting accuracy, and inventory control.
• Collaborate with leadership on strategic initiatives including capacity planning, workflow design, and cost management.
• Develop and track performance metrics (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the plant.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field required; MBA or advanced technical degree preferred.
• Minimum 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or production operations, with at least 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude with hands-on experience troubleshooting machines and equipment.
• Proven success implementing process improvement methodologies 
• Experience managing large CapEx projects and developing ROI-driven proposals.
• Proficient in ERP systems and other production management tools; tech-savvy with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with a collaborative management style.

• Be part of a long-standing, high-quality manufacturer with deep roots in the community.
• Lead a skilled and dedicated team passionate about craftsmanship and innovation.
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact through operational transformation and growth.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and participation in Teamshares’ employee ownership program, offering long-term value and shared success.