Head of Operations - North America - Chicago

Global Manufacturing Market Leader with high visibility to global executive leadership.

About Our Client:

Our client is a global manufacturer with a presence in over 100 countries and a history dating back well over 100 years. They are a market leader in their space, with patented technology and ongoing investments in R&D and strategic growth within the North America region and globally.

The Head of Operations - North America will report to the North America President and be responsible for the overall operations of the North America region. This person will drive financial performance, operational excellence, continuous improvement, program management, health and safety (EHS), and the overall strategic direction and roadmap, creating scalable and sustainable processes and systems.

The Director of Operations will work day-to-day with the Plant Managers and their teams to drive daily improvements and efficiencies while looking at the overall corporate level to drive process improvement, lean principles, and a process-driven approach. The Director of Operations will have oversight of the Plant Managers, Supply Chain, and Procurement for the region. This role is based in the Chicago, Illinois suburbs. Relocation is provided if needed.

Job Description:

• Oversee multi-plant operations to ensure production efficiency, quality, customer satisfaction, and cost-effective management of resources while managing a team of high-performing operations leaders.
• Establish and implement safety programs in line with company values and policies.
• Responsible for day-to-day management of the business to achieve budgeted operating profit and working capital targets.
• Streamline and improve the KPI (Key Performance Indicators) system focusing on leading indicators.
• Develop a plan for next-generation capabilities while recognising commercial opportunities aligning with the company's strategic plan.
• Work with Plant Managers, Supply Chain, and Procurement groups to improve efficiencies and drive synergy.
• Lead the improvement and adherence to the Operating Model to ensure standards are met within the sites and from a corporate level.
• Review monthly financial packs to determine progress and status in obtaining objectives and revise plans as necessary.
• Ensure adequate resources (personnel, materials, equipment, and training) are provided to meet company objectives.
• Provide mentoring and guidance to employees.
• Promote and institutionalise the Continuous Improvement department through Kaizen.
• Develop and implement a strategy to ensure corporate EHS, Quality, and Sustainability systems are deployed.
• Adhere to all Environmental, Health, Safety, Security Requirements covered under Local, State, and Federal Regulations.
• Develop and implement a three-year plan in line with company objectives to promote revenue, profitability, and growth.

The Successful Applicant:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in engineering, operations, and manufacturing.
• 5 years of senior leadership experience in operations and plant management with responsibility over multiple locations.
• Proven experience driving Continuous Improvement, lean, standardisation, EHS, and sustainability from a corporate level.
• Experience within a complex manufacturing environment - automotive, consumer goods manufacturing, packaging, or related.
• Exceptional presentation, written, and verbal communication skills.
• High energy, teamwork, and passion for developing team members.
• High sense of urgency and ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Ability to influence and work cross-functionally with multiple groups and leaders.
• Ability to travel 40-50% across North America.

What's on Offer:

Competitive base salary, bonus, long-term incentive, company car allowance ($1,000 per month), vacation, full benefits, 401K, holidays, and relocation assistance if needed.