Manufacturing Director- Retail Display Manufacturer

Manufacturing Director

Retail Displays | Experiential Marketing | POP

Minnesota- Onsite (5x days per week)

Overview

We are seeking an ambitious, forward-thinking, and inquisitive Director of Manufacturing to lead the performance, execution, and continuous improvement of manufacturing operations. This individual will be responsible for driving operational excellence, fostering accountability, and ensuring alignment across multiple functions within the organization.

The successful candidate will bring extensive manufacturing and operational leadership experience, coupled with the ability to develop and scale workforce capabilities in line with business requirements. This role requires a leader who can balance strategic planning with hands-on execution, solve complex operational challenges, and build high-performing teams. The Director of Manufacturing will play a key role in strengthening operational standards, improving performance, and supporting sustainable growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead daily manufacturing operations with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Establish clear performance expectations across production areas to ensure consistency and accountability.
• Align operational activities with broader business objectives and production requirements.

Workforce Development & Capacity Planning

• Build, develop, and maintain a capable workforce aligned with current and future production needs.
• Maintain close engagement with frontline teams to understand operational challenges and support performance.
• Develop staffing strategies that support productivity, adaptability, and long-term scalability.

Manufacturing Planning & Workflow Design

• Develop and maintain manufacturing plans that optimize workflow, throughput, and resource utilization.
• Design and refine work centre structures to enhance operational effectiveness and accountability.
• Continuously assess and improve processes to reduce inefficiencies and remove bottlenecks.

Problem Solving & Execution

• Address operational challenges in real time and make effective decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Identify issues proactively and implement practical, sustainable solutions.
• Collaborate with internal and external subject matter experts to strengthen execution and outcomes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, supply chain, and senior leadership teams to ensure effective execution of business priorities.
• Translate operational requirements into actionable plans across departments.
• Promote a collaborative culture that encourages innovation, shared accountability, and continuous improvement.

Skills & Competencies

• Extensive experience within manufacturing and operational environments.
• Strong drive, curiosity, initiative, and problem-solving capability.
• Ability to establish priorities, delegate responsibilities, and coordinate resources effectively.
• Exceptional leadership and team development skills.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and research capabilities.
• Ability to document and communicate information clearly and effectively.
• Demonstrated decision-making, problem-solving, and time management skills.
• Ability to communicate concepts and instructions through both visual and verbal methods.
• Flexibility to travel between operational locations as required.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment.

Education

Bachelor's degree in one of the following disciplines or a related field:

• Communication
• Manufacturing or Engineering
• Project Management
• Production Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Business

Experience

• 7–10 years of management experience within project management, production management, manufacturing operations, or supply chain environments.
• Proven experience supporting business operations, leading large teams, managing external partners, and engaging with customers or stakeholders.
• Experience working within compliance and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of ERP systems, production planning methodologies, manufacturing processes, inventory management, and logistics operations.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Understanding of workplace safety standards and best practices within manufacturing environments.

For confidential consideration, please apply or reach out to josh@2pmtalent.com