Senior Director, Global Manufacturing Operations

Pacific International Executive Search; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific International is partnering with a world-leading manufacturer in automotive, composites and mobility to recruit a senior operations leader for one of its largest global sites, overseeing 1000+ FTE and guiding safety, operational excellence and digital strategies.

The role offers a clear pathway to C-Suite leadership through a long-term development program and requires proven success in leading complex manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement, and building high-performing

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in manufacturing; 7+ years of experience in people leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality or related technical field.
• Experience in best practices (Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, Operational Excellence).
• Demonstrated success leading complex manufacturing operations, including multi-line, continuous, discrete, or semi-continuous environments.
• Extensive experience within complex manufacturing environments.
• Proven ability to develop teams, influence stakeholders, and drive organizational change.

Responsibilities

• Lead site manufacturing end to end including operations, engineering, capital projects, quality, and safety.
• Drive safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance metrics.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing, cross-functional leadership team.
• Champion continuous improvement, operational excellence, and Lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Partner with senior leadership to execute long-term business and operational strategy.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support customer success and business growth.
• Manage site operating budgets and contribute to broader business performance and profitability goals.
• Sponsor capital investment, capacity expansion, and site growth projects.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and employee engagement.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Operational excellence

Change management

Stakeholder influence

People development

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality or related technical field

Job description

Pacific International is partnering with a world-leading manufacturer in automotive, composites and mobility to recruit a senior operations leader for one of its largest global sites, overseeing 1000+ FTE and guiding safety, operational excellence and digital strategies.

The role offers a clear pathway to C-Suite leadership through a long-term development program and requires proven success in leading complex manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement, and building high-performing