Strategic Manufacturing Operations Leader

Midwest Executive Search Group; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Midwest Executive Search Group is seeking an Operations Director to lead a premier vehicle manufacturing organization near Akron, Ohio. This on-site role requires a people-first leader who translates strategy into disciplined execution and fosters continuous improvement across functions.

Reporting to the CEO, you will drive performance across production, maintenance and facilities, lead cross-functional teams, and ensure safety, cost discipline, and scalable processes through transformational

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Operations Management, or related field.
• +7 years of progressive leadership experience in complex, discrete manufacturing environments; automotive industry experience a plus.
• Experience in Union manufacturing environments is highly preferred.
• Proven track record leading multi-functional operations teams (production, engineering, maintenance).
• Demonstrated experience driving safety performance, operational stability, and productivity improvements.
• Experience operating in fast-paced, high-demand environments with variable production cycles.
• This is an on-site position located near Akron, OH. Relocation will be provided for a non-local hire.

Responsibilities

• Drive manufacturing performance across production, maintenance and facility, ensuring operational excellence.
• Lead disciplined daily management practices across value streams, ensuring clear prioritization, structured problem solving, and execution rigor aligned with company goals and regulatory requirements.
• Meet manufacturing budgets and forecast commitments, ensuring cost discipline, labor efficiency, and performance alignment to financial targets.
• Ensure manufacturing processes are technically robust, scalable, and capable of meeting current and future demand requirements.
• Ensure preventive maintenance rigor, equipment uptime, and facility readiness to support safe and efficient production.
• Ensure operations organization is properly structured, staffed, and capable of meeting production requirements under varying demand conditions.
• Refine and ensure operational performance metrics are visible, accurate, and leveraged for accountability and corrective action.
• Partner with HR to ensure compliance with established company and collective bargaining practices, and timely resolution of matters

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Continuous improvement

Cross-functional collaboration

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Industrial Technology/Operations Management

Job description

Midwest Executive Search Group is seeking an Operations Director to lead a premier vehicle manufacturing organization near Akron, Ohio. This on-site role requires a people-first leader who translates strategy into disciplined execution and fosters continuous improvement across functions.

Reporting to the CEO, you will drive performance across production, maintenance and facilities, lead cross-functional teams, and ensure safety, cost discipline, and scalable processes through transformational