Job Description

Director of Operations

Location: Sioux Falls, SD (relocation provided)

Job Type: Full-Time On-site | Executive Leadership

About Our Client

Our client is a leading manufacturer and distributor of consumer products. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and superior service, they have established a nationwide distribution network with strategically located DC's. Their mission is to provide pet professionals with high-quality products and unmatched delivery speed—ensuring that groomers have everything they need to succeed.

Position Overview

As the Director of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the operational strategy and efficiency. This leadership position is responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing multi-site distribution, streamlining materials management, and enhancing the supply chain. You will lead cross-functional teams and implement cost-effective, scalable solutions that support the company’s growth objectives while maintaining exceptional service levels.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced operations leader with a strong background in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management to make a lasting impact in a fast-growing industry.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Define and execute the strategic direction for operations, aligning with company-wide goals.
• Develop scalable and efficient operational processes to support business expansion.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging Lean Manufacturing and companywide process improvement practices to optimize productivity and resource utilization.

Multi-Site Distribution & Supply Chain Optimization

• Oversee and enhance multi-site distribution operations, ensuring seamless logistics and on-time delivery to customers nationwide.
• Implement best-in-class inventory control and fulfillment strategies to maximize efficiency.
• Optimize materials sourcing to balance quality, cost, and supplier reliability.

Manufacturing Efficiency

• Ensure internal manufacturing focuses on waste reduction, optimizing workflows, minimizing downtime, and leveraging technology where possible for continued revenue growth.

Budgeting & Financial Performance

• Develop and manage the operations budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, efficiency gains, and risk mitigation while maintaining operational excellence.
• Oversee capital expenditure planning and investment strategies.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Recruit, hire, and train management-level staff to support company growth.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and track operational success through data-driven decision-making.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations governing manufacturing, distribution, and workplace safety.
• Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to address potential operational disruptions.

Quality Systems / Quality Control

• Improve accountability and development of quality procedures and processes, including adoption and use of “Good Manufacturing Processes” (GMP), ensuring product quality meets customer requirements.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• MBA or advanced degree is a plus.

Experience

• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing. Ideal to have experience with warehouse and distribution.
• Proven track record of successfully managing multi-site plants and/or distribution networks.
• Understanding of materials management, procurement, and supplier negotiations.
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives (Lean Manufacturing).

Key Skills

• Visionary leadership with the ability to drive operational strategy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP/WMS software.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Why Join?

• Industry Leader: Work with a market-leading brand in the pet grooming industry.
• Growth & Innovation: Lead operations in a company that’s expanding rapidly.
• Impact-Driven Leadership: Play a key role in shaping the future of the company.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a passionate, results-driven leadership team.
• Equity Ownership potential.

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