Vice President of Operations

DSJ Global; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading specialty chemical manufacturer based in Cleveland is seeking a Vice President of Operations to oversee multi-site chemical manufacturing operations. This role requires driving operational strategy and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The ideal candidate has 15+ years of experience in operations leadership, particularly in the chemical or adhesives manufacturing sector, and possesses a strong background in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies. Competitive compensation and opportunities for operational excellence are offered.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive operations leadership in chemical or adhesives manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience leading multi-site operations.
• Strong knowledge of polymer/adhesive production processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-site chemical manufacturing operations.
• Drive operational strategy and capacity planning.
• Champion a safety-first culture and ensure compliance.

Skills

Leadership in multi-site operations

Lean/Six Sigma methodologies

Safety compliance

Operations strategy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field

MBA

Job description

Overview

The Vice President of Operations leads all manufacturing, supply chain, EH&S, quality, and operational excellence activities across the company's speciality chemical manufacturing network. This executive is responsible for driving safe, efficient, and scalable operations that support growth and deliver high-performance adhesive products.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-site chemical manufacturing operations, including production, engineering, maintenance, supply chain, and procurement.
• Drive operational strategy, capacity planning, and network optimization aligned with business growth.
• Champion a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, PSM, REACH, TSCA, and industry regulations.
• Oversee quality systems and continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage supply chain performance, raw-material sourcing, inventory, and logistics.
• Partner with R&D to scale new adhesive technologies from pilot to full production.
• Lead capital planning, major equipment upgrades, and plant expansion projects.
• Develop talent, build high-performing teams, and foster a culture of accountability and operational excellence.
• Manage operating budgets, cost improvement projects, and performance KPIs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field; MBA preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive operations leadership in chemical or adhesives manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience leading multi-site operations and implementing Lean/Six Sigma.
• Strong knowledge of polymer/adhesive production processes and chemical regulatory compliance.
• Proven track record of improving safety, quality, cost, and productivity metrics.