Director, Operations PMO – Manufacturing Network Optimization

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Oversee enterprise-level operations transformation and optimization initiatives for the manufacturing network.

• Ensure the manufacturing network aligns with strategic growth, enhances productivity, and fulfills supply chain goals.

• Direct cross-functional execution and set up program governance.

• Manage change for intricate operational initiatives.

• Spearhead high-impact operational transformation projects from conception to implementation and benefit realization.

• Create and oversee integrated program plans, including milestones, dependencies, and resource needs.

• Provide consistent updates to executives and stakeholders regarding progress, decisions, risks, and results.

• Establish governance, escalation processes, risk management practices, and frameworks for decision-making.

• Collaborate with senior leaders to ensure initiatives align with corporate strategy and operational objectives.

• Coordinate cross-functional teams and ensure accountability for execution and outcomes.

• Facilitate the effective and ongoing implementation of operational changes.

• Lead product transfers, line relocations, capacity balancing and expansions, facility startups and commissioning, and optimization of the manufacturing footprint.

• Assess operational, financial, customer, and supply chain implications of network modifications.

• Create business cases, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and develop implementation strategies.

• Assist in ensuring that transitions and operational changes are planned and executed efficiently.

⛳️ Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, or a related field is required.

• An MBA or advanced degree is preferred.

• Over 7 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, supply chain, engineering, operations finance, enterprise transformation, strategy, or program management.

• Proven experience in leading complex, cross-functional initiatives across various functions, locations, and senior stakeholders in manufacturing is essential.

• Food manufacturing experience is strongly preferred.

• Strong financial and analytical skills, including business case development, cost/savings tracking, scenario analysis, operational modeling, dashboards, and executive-level decision support.

• Comprehensive understanding of manufacturing complexity, cost drivers, equipment performance, labor models, food safety, customer service, capacity, inventory, and operational readiness.

• Demonstrated ability to influence and achieve results in a complex, matrixed organization without relying solely on direct authority.

• Willingness to travel 50–75% of the time.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package with no waiting period – eligible from day one.

• 401(k) program featuring a 5% employer match and 100% vesting upon enrollment.

• Four weeks of vacation.

• Five sick days.

• Parental leave.

• 11 company holidays, including two floating holidays.

• Paid training.

• Tuition reimbursement.

• Access to the DevelopU educational platform with over 10,000 free courses.

• Inclusive working environment.

• Opportunities within Employee Resource Groups.

• Wellness programs.

• Employee assistance programs.

• Potential eligibility for an annual discretionary merit compensation award, bonus, and equity pay.