Director of Rug Operations

Position: Director of Rug Operations (Warehouse-Based Leadership Role)Location: Norwalk, ConnecticutElizabeth Eakins and Holland & Sherry - two heritage brands renowned for craftsmanship, quality, and design excellence - are seeking a Director of Rug Operations (or Rug Operations Manager, depending on experience) to lead and unify all rug-related operations across both businesses.This is a senior, hands-on operations leadership role responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of rug production and fulfillment, from mill production through finishing, warehousing, sampling, delivery, and installation readiness. The role plays a critical part in supporting growth, improving margins, and ensuring operational excellence as both brands continue to expand their rug collections and custom offerings.About The RoleThis position consolidates operational oversight into a single, experienced leader who will bring structure, clarity, and scalability to rug operations across both brands. The Director of Rug Operations will partner closely with sales and creative leadership while owning execution, efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement.The role is based in Norwalk, CT and leads on-site warehouse, production, and finishing teams.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipOwn and unify all rug operations across Elizabeth Eakins and Holland & SherryLead, mentor, and manage managers across product management, warehouse operations, mending/finishing, and sample departmentsEstablish clear workflows, accountability, and performance standardsServe as the operational counterpart to sales and creative leadershipProduction & Vendor ManagementOversee production schedules, purchase orders, and timelines across domestic and international millsMaintain strong relationships with mills, finishing partners, and key vendorsEnsure consistent quality control standards across all productsPartner with executive leadership on costing, margins, and operational budgetsWarehouse, Inventory & SamplesOversee warehouse operations including receiving, storage, inventory accuracy, and outbound logisticsManage and optimize sample programs, budgets, and inventory across both brandsImprove systems related to sample flow, tracking, and lifecycle managementStrategic In-Housing & Growth InitiativesThis Role Will Spearhead Major Operational Initiatives, IncludingBringing advanced finishing and mending services in-house, including staffing, training, equipment, and workflow developmentBuilding an internal delivery, spread, and installation service, beginning locally and scaling nationallyReducing reliance on third-party providers while capturing meaningful margin expansionCreating bundled offerings that enhance service levels and profitabilityProcess Improvement & ScalabilityDesign and implement systems that support growth, consistency, and operational clarityImprove cross-department communication and executionSupport new collection launches from an operational readiness perspectiveLead special projects that increase efficiency, service quality, and profitabilityQualifications & Experience8–12+ years of experience in operations, production, or manufacturing leadershipStrong preference for experience in rugs, textiles, furniture, or high-end interiors manufacturingProven ability to manage managers and multi-layered teamsHands-on leadership style with strategic thinking capabilityStrong understanding of production workflows, logistics, and quality controlFinancial and margin awareness with experience managing budgets and costsHighly organized, accountable, and execution-focusedComfortable in a fast-paced, detail-driven environmentProficiency in Microsoft Office; ERP or production systems experience strongly preferredWhy Join Elizabeth Eakins & Holland & SherryRoleThis role is central to the next phase of growth for both brands. By consolidating rug operations under a senior leader, the business will:Improve execution and accountabilityIncrease margins through strategic in-housing and bundled servicesScale more effectively as collections, custom work, and volume growEnable senior leadership to focus on sales, creative direction, and long-term strategyThis is a rare opportunity to shape the operational backbone of two respected luxury brands and leave a lasting impact on how our rug businesses operate and scale.