Operations Manager
Our Client is seeking an accomplished Operations Manager to take ownership of a technically sophisticated, high-volume manufacturing facility focused on specialty chemicals and advanced electronic materials. This role is ideal for a proven operations executive who excels in highly regulated, process-driven environments and is energized by leading complex manufacturing systems with precision and discipline.
This is a high-impact leadership opportunity to shape operational strategy, elevate plant performance, and build a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
What You'll Lead
As the senior site leader, you will have full accountability for operational excellence, safety, and financial performance:
- End-to-end leadership of plant operations, including EHS, production, process engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain
- Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring strict compliance with environmental, health, and process safety regulations (PSM)
- Drive consistent, high-yield production in a complex, batch or continuous chemical processing environment
- Deliver results across critical KPIs: safety, quality, yield, throughput, cost, and service reliability
- Optimize process capability, scale-up, and capacity planning to support evolving customer and technology demands
- Lead and embed Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence methodologies to reduce variability and improve efficiency
- Oversee capital planning and investment strategy, including facility upgrades, process enhancements, and automation initiatives
- Ensure rigorous adherence to quality systems and customer specifications, particularly in high-precision or regulated applications
- Develop and mentor a high-performing technical and leadership team, fostering accountability and engagement
- Partner with R&D, commercial, and corporate teams to align operations with innovation pipelines and growth strategies
- Implement data-driven performance management systems to drive visibility, accountability, and continuous improvement
What Makes You a Strong Fit
You are a seasoned manufacturing leader with a track record in complex, high-spec environments:
- 10+ years of progressive leadership in specialty chemicals, electronic materials, advanced materials, or related process industries
- Proven success leading plant or site operations in highly regulated, technically demanding environments
- Deep expertise in chemical processing, materials manufacturing, or high-purity production systems
- Strong experience with process safety management (PSM) and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, etc.)
- Demonstrated ability to drive operational excellence, yield improvement, and cost optimization
- Experience leading cross-functional technical teams in fast-paced, high-reliability production settings
- Solid financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and capital project management
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence, develop talent, and drive cultural change
- Bachelor's degree required (Engineering or related field preferred); advanced degree a plus
Preferred Expertise
- Lean/Six Sigma certification with demonstrated application in process industries
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems and advanced process analytics tools
- Background in batch chemical processing, high-purity materials, semiconductors, or electronic materials manufacturing
- Track record of scaling operations, improving yields, and managing product complexity
- Familiarity with ISO, GMP, or other quality/regulatory frameworks (as applicable)
FAQs
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