Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading all operations and functions in a vertically integrated manufacturing facility, supporting the Kitting Manufacturing in Byhalia, MS.Job Description:Purpose of the RoleThe Director, Operations leads a hybrid operation that combines distribution execution with light manufacturing/value-add assembly, including activities such as holiday display builds, heated gear kitting, late-point kitting, and project-based production. This role is accountable for operational performance, labor and capacity planning, quality, safety, and leadership development across both value streams.The Director serves as the operational integrator-ensuring inbound, outbound, and material-flow performance while managing high-volume, seasonal, and project-based build operations. This role supports the VP Operations in delivering strategic priorities, scaling capability, and improving cost, speed, and quality across the operation.Key ResponsibilitiesDistribution Operations (Inbound, Outbound, Material Flow)* Lead daily operations for receiving, putaway, replenishment, picking, packing, shipping, and returns.* Ensure accurate and compliant execution of all distribution SOPs.* Develop labor plans and staffing strategies to meet fluctuating demand.* Drive performance across accuracy, productivity, service-level targets, and throughput.* Partner with Transportation, Supply Chain Planning, Inventory Control, and Customer Fulfillment teams to ensure on-time, in-full delivery.Light Manufacturing / Value-Added Operations* Lead all light manufacturing and assembly activities, including:* Holiday display assembly* Heated gear kitting* Late-point/final kitting* Custom packaging and promotional builds* Retail-specific special project execution* Ensure accurate work instructions, quality inspections, BOM usage, and traceability.* Build scalable processes for seasonal and project-based volume changes.* Partner with Engineering and Product teams to execute pilot builds and launch new programs.Leadership & People Development* Lead and develop a multi-layer team including Operations Managers, Supervisors, Team Leads, and hourly teams.* Build a culture of extreme ownership, high accountability, transparent communication, and continuous improvement.* Drive leadership bench strength, succession planning, and internal promotions.* Partner with Talent Management, ER, and L&D to build leadership capability across all levels.Strategic, Continuous Improvement & Operational Scaling* Translate the VP's strategy into operational roadmaps, peak plans, capacity models, and staffing frameworks.* Use Lean, CI, and problem-solving tools to elevate performance across both distribution and value-add operations.* Identify and eliminate waste through standard work, 5S, process flow design, takt time planning, and line balancing.* Improve throughput, accuracy, cost-per-unit, and overall customer experience.* Lead cross-functional initiatives that improve speed, agility, and process stability.Financial & Performance Accountability* Own operational budget for labor, materials, supplies, special projects, and light manufacturing activities.* Track and deliver on cost-per-unit, productivity goals, quality performance, labor efficiency, and build-throughput.* Support capital projects including equipment, layout changes, and facility upgrades.* Provide weekly and monthly operational reporting to the VP Operations with clear insights, trends, and recommendations.Key Competencies* Drive Execution: Ensures consistent operational performance across multiple value streams.* Drive Growth & Innovation: Anticipates evolving business needs and creates scalable solutions.* Build High Performing Teams: Coaches leaders and builds effective succession pipelines.* Collaborative Relationships: Partners cross-functionally to deliver aligned results.* Build Organizational Capacity: Creates systems, processes, and structures that scale with business growth.* Continuous Improvement Mindset: Uses data and lean principles to drive improvement.QualificationsRequired* Bachelor's degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field.* 10+ years of leadership experience in distribution, assembly, or mixed manufacturing environments.* Experience managing leaders (Managers, Supervisors) in high-volume operations.* Strong analytical skills with proficiency in operational metrics, labor models, and system-based planning.* Demonstrated experience scaling operations through peak season, promotional cycles, or project-driven work.* Strong communication, influencing, and change-management capability.Preferred* Experience in retail promotional build, kitting, assembly, or customization environments.* Lean, Six Sigma, or CI certification.* Experience with WMS/LMS systems, ERP, and production workflow tools.* Background leading mixed-mode operations (distribution + assembly under one structure).Success Measures* Throughput, accuracy, and service-level achievement in distribution.* Successful execution of seasonal builds and special projects.* Cost-per-unit and productivity improvements.* Leadership bench strength and retention.* Safety performance and quality outcomes.* Year-over-year improvement in operational capability and process stability.Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.