Director of Operations (Aerospace Manufacturing)

This onsite leadership role is accountable for driving operational excellence across aerospace production and repair activities of two sites, Newnan and LaGrange. The Director of Operations ensures that manufacturing, supply chain, and support functions are executed in alignment with customer commitments, regulatory requirements, and business objectives. This position owns the end-to-end operational strategy, focusing on safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance while enabling growth in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.

The role requires close collaboration with planning, supply chain, engineering, finance, and business development teams to deliver an integrated operational plan. This is a critical leadership position for an experienced operations professional capable of leading teams, optimizing processes, and delivering results.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Direct all site operations, including production, maintenance, and support functions, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Lead with Standard Operation procedures:
• Drive this standard process to embed these standards with front line leaders to drive standardization and clear communication through the site.
• Execution of SIOP Commitments: Translate the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) consensus plan into actionable operational strategies. Ensure capacity, resources, and schedules to align with customer demand.
• Performance Management: Establish and monitor KPIs for safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Drive accountability through robust operating mechanisms and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Capacity and Resource Planning/Execution: Partner with planning and SIOP teams on labor, equipment, and tooling capacity planning. Implement strategies to eliminate bottlenecks and optimize throughput. Ensure material availability and supplier performance support operational goals.
• ERP and Systems Utilization: Ensure effective use of ERP systems for production scheduling, material flow, and shop floor execution. Champion best practices and system enhancements.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and other improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall operational performance.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain variability, capacity constraints, and compliance challenges.
• KPIs & Operating Mechanisms: Design and maintain KPIs, dashboards, and management operating systems highlighting operational health, risk areas, and required corrective actions.
• Team Development: Build and mentor a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
• 8 years of experience in operations leadership within aerospace or other highly regulated industries
• Proven track record in managing production, maintenance, and supply chain functions
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, capacity planning, and operational excellence principles
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle, AS400, Epicor, etc.) and advanced analytical tools (Excel, Power BI)
• Knowledge of AS9100, FAA FAR 145, EASA and CAAC requirements and regulatory compliance
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills