Director of Manufacturing Operations

The United Green; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cannabis brand is seeking a Director of Manufacturing Operations to oversee its Michigan facility. This role requires extensive manufacturing experience and leadership skills to optimize processes and enhance team performance in a competitive market. The ideal candidate will champion Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, drive operational excellence, and develop high-performing teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally in CPG, food, beverage, or regulated industries.
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma certification with practical application knowledge.
• Strong leadership skills with high emotional intelligence.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the manufacturing facility.
• Drive performance across the cannabis product lifecycle.
• Lead and develop a team of department managers.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

Team Development

P&L Responsibility

Job description

Director of Manufacturing Operations

Location: Metro Detroit, MI

Schedule: Full-time | 80–90% onsite | On-call availability required

About the Opportunity:

One of the most innovative and respected cannabis brands in the U.S. is seeking a transformational General Manager to lead its Michigan manufacturing operations. This is a leadership role overseeing end-to-end cannabis product manufacturing at the company’s most strategic facility.

With Michigan representing the brand’s largest revenue-generating market, this role is essential to sustaining growth, improving operational performance, and expanding into neighboring states. The ideal candidate will bring manufacturing expertise, team leadership, and a passion for continuous improvement, and will be positioned for future promotion based on performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Michigan manufacturing facility, ensuring excellence across all functions.
• Drive performance across the full cannabis product lifecycle: supply chain, production, automation, distribution, and compliance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 5–6 department managers across core operational areas.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
• Rebuild culture and stability by restoring team trust and implementing clear performance standards.
• Collaborate with national leadership to ensure facility operations align with corporate goals and strategy.
• Implement scalable systems and SOPs in preparation for automation and future expansion.
• Own P&L responsibility and consistently meet or exceed operational KPIs.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment—leading with agility, resilience, and integrity.

Essential qualifications:

• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, preferably within CPG, food, beverage, pharma, or other regulated industries.
• Strong leadership presence with a proven ability to shift workplace culture and instill high-performance standards.
• Demonstrated success in training, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams.
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma certified, with deep practical application knowledge.
• Skilled in leading complex operations, automation initiatives, and organizational change management.
• Comfortable interfacing with executive leadership—confident, direct, and an exceptional communicator.
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment in high-pressure situations.
• Hands-on leadership style—visible, accountable, and proactive.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Metro Detroit.
• Available for 80–90% onsite presence and on-call responsibilities.
• Willing to travel out-of-state for leadership meetings and expansion planning.
• Predictive Index Assessment will be required during the interview process.

This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned manufacturing executive to take the helm of a powerhouse operation in one of the country's most dynamic cannabis markets. If you're ready to lead with vision, integrity, and operational excellence, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.