What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations and Suppy Chain Director position at KESTREL Vision?
We are looking for a hands-on and results-driven Director of Operations & Supply Chain to lead manufacturing and supply chain activities across the Americas.
This role combines strategic leadership with strong operational execution, covering end-to-end operations including manufacturing (owned and contract), procurement, planning, logistics, quality, and HS&E performance.
A key priority will be to strengthen and standardize MRP processes to improve planning accuracy, inventory management, and service levels across a complex network.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Execution
- Lead all manufacturing and supply chain operations across the Americas
- Own performance across cost, service, quality, delivery, inventory, and safety
- Drive a strong operational cadence with clear KPIs and accountability
- Act as a hands-on leader, engaging directly with teams and data to solve problems and deliver results
MRP, Planning & Process Discipline
- Lead the implementation and optimization of MRP systems and processes
- Improve demand planning, production planning, and inventory performance
- Define and enforce planning standards across sites and partners
- Partner with IT to enhance ERP and planning tools
- Drive improvements in forecast accuracy, inventory turns, and service levels
Continuous Improvement & Transformation
- Embed a culture of continuous improvement (Lean, Six Sigma)
- Lead initiatives to reduce cost, improve throughput, and eliminate waste
- Balance day-to-day operations with long-term transformation priorities
- Sponsor and directly lead high-impact initiatives when needed
Manufacturing & Footprint Strategy
- Optimize the industrial footprint (owned sites and contract manufacturing)
- Lead make vs. buy decisions
- Drive key transformations (startups, expansions, consolidations, closures)
- Ensure scalability to support growth and market evolution
Contract Manufacturing & Supplier Management
- Develop strong relationships with key manufacturing partners
- Ensure performance on quality, cost, delivery, and safety
- Implement governance, KPIs, and regular business reviews
- Increase visibility on supplier planning and performance
Supply Chain & Logistics
- Oversee end-to-end supply chain (procurement, S&OP, planning, logistics)
- Optimize inventory to balance working capital and service levels
- Ensure efficient and compliant logistics flows
- Develop risk mitigation and contingency plans
Quality & HS&E
- Ensure robust quality systems across all operations
- Promote a strong safety and environmental culture
- Ensure full compliance with regulations and standards
People Leadership & Performance
- Build and develop a high-performing operations organization
- Foster accountability, ownership, and a problem-solving mindset
- Coach leaders to combine strategic thinking with operational engagement
- Lead performance through data-driven KPIs and structured reviews
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, or Business (MBA preferred)
- 15 years of experience in manufacturing and supply chain leadership
- Background in engineered products and complex assembly environments
- Proven experience with MRP implementation and optimization
- Strong hands-on operational leadership mindset
- Track record of driving performance and transformation simultaneously
- Experience in multi-site and contract manufacturing environments
- Strong ERP and planning systems expertise
- Solid background in Lean / Six Sigma
- Strong financial and operational acumen
Preferred Experience
- Global manufacturing environments
- Regulated industries
- Industrial footprint optimization
- Advanced S&OP / IBP
- Exposure to turnaround environments
- Contract manufacturing and third-party models
- Private equity environment / M&A / ERP integrations
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Equal Opportunity & Benefits
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
- 401(k) & 401(k) matching
- Health, dental & vision insurance
- Life insurance and AD&D
- Legal and identity theft protection
- AFLAC
- Paid time off & holiday pay
- HSA / FSA
- Paid parental leave
- Employee Assistance Program