Director of Operations

JOB TITLE: Director of OperationsPOSITION TYPE: Full-Time, ExemptREPORTS TO: Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer (COO)LOCATION: East Longmeadow, MA (On-site)ABOUT EXCEL DRYERFor over 60 years, Excel Dryer has been revolutionizing commercial hand hygiene solutions from our Massachusetts headquarters. We're not just another manufacturer; we're the family-owned company that invented the high-speed hand dryer category and transformed an entire industry.In 1997, Excel Dryer faced a stark reality: people hated using hand dryers. They were slow, ineffective, and frustrating. Rather than accept the status quo, we partnered with MIT scientists to redefine what "dry" actually means and created the XLERATOR®, the first hand dryer to dry hands completely in 8-10 seconds. Today, the XLERATOR is the #1 selling and specified hand dryer globally.We manufacture every product at our LEED Gold-certified facility, sourcing components locally whenever possible. Our commitment to American manufacturing isn't just philosophy, it's our competitive advantage.Excel Dryer is certified as a Great Place to Work (2 consecutive years) and ranked #40 on Fast Company's Top 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators.JOB SUMMARYThe Director of Operations leads Excel Dryer’s manufacturing and warehouse operations, driving operational excellence across production, quality, safety, and continuous improvement. This role is the operational backbone of the company’s LEED Gold-certified U.S. manufacturing facility — responsible for developing and executing strategies that ensure efficient, safe, and scalable production of world-class commercial hand hygiene products.This is a senior leadership role requiring both strategic thinking and deep hands-on expertise in a high-performance manufacturing environment.QUALIFICATIONSEDUCATIONBachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field requiredAdvanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., Lean/Six Sigma, APICS/CPIM) preferredEXPERIENCE10+ years of progressive manufacturing operations experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership roleProven track record leading production, quality, and warehouse functions in a complex manufacturing environmentDemonstrated success with process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent)Familiarity with electromechanical assembly, specialty finishing (e.g., powder coat, plating), or precision manufacturing a plusSKILLS & COMPETENCIESStrong expertise in MRP/ERP systems, production planning, inventory control, and operational analyticsProven ability to set and achieve KPIs, drive accountability, and report performance to senior leadershipExceptional leadership skills — experience developing managers, supervisors, and frontline teamsWorking knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and applicable environmental and workplace safety regulationsHighly collaborative with cross-functional partners across finance, engineering, and commercial teamsComfortable operating in a hands-on, fast-paced manufacturing environment with competing prioritiesPHYSICAL / TRAVEL REQUIREMENTSAbility to work regularly on the plant and warehouse floorOccasional local and industry travel as business needs requireDUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIESOPERATIONS LEADERSHIP & PRODUCTION EXCELLENCELead all manufacturing and warehouse operations to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality production across all product linesEstablish and maintain manufacturing capacity to meet demand — including staffing strategy, scheduling, and resource allocation across departmentsSet production goals, performance standards, and KPIs; monitor results and hold teams accountablePartner with the Senior Director of Engineering/R&D on plant studies, process improvements, new product introductions, and corrective actionsQUALITY & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENTChampion a culture of quality and continuous improvement across all production and warehouse functionsDrive ongoing analysis and implementation of operational improvements that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and elevate product qualityLeverage input from operators, staff, and customers as a source of feedback and innovationEnsure all quality system procedures are consistently maintained and enforcedSAFETY, SECURITY & COMPLIANCELead the company’s plant safety program with a zero-incident mindset and a culture of personal accountability at every levelOversee Safety Committee activities, including regular inspections, policy development, and emergency preparednessMaintain full compliance with OSHA, EPA, and all applicable federal, state, and local safety and environmental regulationsDevelop, communicate, and enforce safety and security policies and procedures across all plant and warehouse areasINVENTORY & SUPPLY CHAINOversee warehouse and materials management, including receiving accuracy, incoming quality verification, and inventory integrityPartner with the Materials Manager to build and develop a best-in-class warehouse operationEnsure proper inventory tracking, labeling, and disposition of defective or non-conforming materialsTEAM DEVELOPMENT & ORGANIZATIONAL EFFECTIVENESSRecruit, develop, and retain a high-performing team of managers, supervisors, and production personnelDrive a culture of engagement, accountability, and professional growth through coaching, performance management, and formal development programsConduct performance reviews and compensation recommendations in alignment with established guidelinesMaintain transparent, open communication with all levels of the plant and warehouse organizationBUDGET & STRATEGIC PLANNINGCollaborate with the President, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Senior Director of Engineering/R&D on annual budgeting, capital planning, and strategic operational prioritiesDevelop forecasts for material costs, labor, overhead, and capital expendituresIdentify and advance strategic operational improvements on a rolling 12–18-month horizonManage preventive and corrective maintenance programs for the facility, equipment, and groundsMISCELLANEOUSRepresent Excel Dryer in local community and industry activitiesPerform additional duties and lead special projects as directed by the President and/or COOWHAT WE OFFERCOMPENSATION & INCENTIVESSalary Range: $140,000 - $170,000, commensurate with experiencePerformance-based variable compensation with up to 20% of base salary (15% of base salary for achievement of personal SMART goals and 5% of base salary on the Company achieving its annual sales goal)Participation in company success as we continue our growth trajectoryBENEFITS & PERKSComprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts401(k) retirement planGenerous paid time off and flexible work arrangementsProfessional development budget for conferences, training, and executive coachingModern, LEED Gold-certified office environment in the Springfield, MA areaRelocation assistance available for the right candidateCULTURE & GROWTHJoin a Great Place to Work-certified company ranked among Fast Company's Best Workplaces for InnovatorsAmerican manufacturing success story with a 60+ year track recordMission-driven team passionate about sustainability, quality, and continuous improvementOUR VALUES IN ACTIONAt Excel Dryer, we don't just talk about values—we live them:Innovation: We invented the high-speed hand dryer category and continue to push boundaries with products like XLERATORsync. We want sales leaders who think creatively and challenge conventional approaches.Made in USA Pride: We're committed to American manufacturing when it would be easier (and cheaper) to outsource. We want people who appreciate craftsmanship and quality.Sustainability: Our products help facilities reduce their carbon footprint by up to 94%. We want team members who believe business can be a force for environmental good.Customer Obsession: We don't just sell hand dryers; we solve problems for facility managers, architects, and sustainability leaders. We want people who listen first and sell second.Transparency: We were the first in our industry to publish Environmental Product Declarations and Health Product Declarations. We want straight shooters who lead with honesty.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENTExcel Dryer is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.