Director of Operations

Overview:Dakota Granite is seeking a passionate, experienced, and detail-oriented Director of Operations to join our strong team. Looking for an individual with a growth mindset that has a proven ability to help scale an organization. An extensive background in Manufacturing is required. Offering a competitive total compensation package. An ideal candidate will be highly proactive and involved in working both “on” and "in” the business. First and foremost, we are looking for a Core Value fit. Our Core Values:Team Player, Empowered Optimism, Passion for Excellence, Problem Solver, Tenacity to DeliverQualifications:5+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including multi-site responsibility.5+ years of plant/facility leadership experienceProven track record of leading large, cross-functional manufacturing teamsExperience managing plant budgets, cost control, and operational performanceBackground leading factory startups, expansions, and optimization initiatives.Deep expertise in custom/engineered-to-order manufacturing environments Strong background in capacity planning, automation, and operational excellence methodologies (i.e. Lean, Six Sigma, or similar).Demonstrated success deploying advanced manufacturing techniques and driving measurable productivity gainsExperience managing large-scale capital projects and complex cross-functional initiatives.Adept use and application of technologyExceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.Strong executive presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization.Bachelor’s degree in relatable fieldCore Roles & ResponsibilitiesLead, Manage, & Accountability (LMA)Gains mastery of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and equip teams with applying EOS  Provide strategic and clear direction for a wide range of Operational LeadersProvide the necessary tools to Direct Reports: resources, training, technology, time and attention Keeps expectations clear on both sides with attention to the company’s top prioritiesBalances daily operations and long-term goalsRemove Obstacles & BarriersConduct Regular 1:1s to understand challenges, provide support, and keep priorities clearFacilitates effective meetings focused on solving issues and finding opportunitiesHelps teams find true root issues and make decisions to continually move forwardIdentifies and reduces roadblocks that prevent teams from meeting goalsEscalates major issues when needed and ensures follow-throughEnsure Operational EfficiencyImprove production flow, quality, safety, and on-time delivery across all locationsIdentify and remove bottlenecks that slow down production.Maximizes utilization of labor, equipment, materials, and technologyTracks & applies data to drive future actionsLead continuous improvement efforts that reduce waste and improve performanceEstablish, monitor and maintain operating KPI’s including, but not limited to, labor and overhead variancesUtilize Epicor Kinetic ERP and MRP to find and increase efficiencies and improve data transparency/reportingSet Management PrioritiesSet clear priorities for operational leaders and teams.Keep teams focused on the most critical company goals.Balance daily production needs with long-term improvement projects.Make sure leaders understand expectations, ownership, and deadlines.Follow up consistently to ensure progress and accountability.Craft and Maintain Company PolicyHelp create and maintain clear company policies, processes, and proceduresSupport in organizational effort toward Followed by All (FBA) on company processesWork with Leadership and HR to improve safety, accountability, and performance standardsReview and update policies as the business grows and changesSupport practical, easy-to-follow SOPs across operationsOversee Employee DevelopmentHelp employees grow personally and professionally.Coach and develop supervisors, managers, and future leaders.Support training plans that help employees succeed in their roles.Build a positive, accountable work environment.Help improve employee retention through strong leadership and clear expectations.We are seeking candidates who are willing to relocate to the Milbank, SD area.