What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Manufacturing position at Rustic Marlin?
Job Title: Director of Manufacturing
Location: Hanover, MA (On-Site)
Reports To: CEO
Company: Rustic Marlin
About Rustic Marlin
Rustic Marlin is a fast-growing American-made home décor brand, born from a simple love story and built on authenticity, creativity, and quality craftsmanship. Headquartered in Hanover, Massachusetts, we design, manufacture, and distribute premium handcrafted décor products across the U.S. Our team is dedicated to creating meaningful pieces that turn houses into homes, and we’re looking for a leader who shares our passion for quality, people, and growth.
Position Summary
The Director of Manufacturing will oversee day-to-day operations of the production team at Rustic Marlin. This hands-on executive will serve as a bridge between strategic direction and operational success—ensuring that Rustic Marlin runs efficiently and continues to scale sustainably.
The Director of Manufacturing will lead and empower our team, strengthen operational discipline, and work closely with the executive team to shape and execute long-term growth plans. This is a key leadership role ideal for someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and wants to help steward a beloved New England brand into its next chapter.
Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Culture
- Champion Rustic Marlin’s core values and foster a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
- Hire, train and mentor the entire woodshop team.
- Ensure strong internal communication and cross-functional alignment.
Operations Management
- Oversee and optimize all day-to-day operations of producing all our made in the USA home decor products.
- Lead operational planning, including capacity, resource allocation, and efficiency improvement initiatives.
- Ensure quality control systems and standards are maintained across all product lines.
- Create Standard Operating Procedures for all tasks and ensure that all members of team are trained and held accountable to executing proper procedures.
Financial & Strategic Planning
- Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for the department.
- Monitor Key Performance Indicators and profitability performance; identify opportunities to improve margins and control costs.
- Attend weekly meetings with Leadership Team to review goals and priorities.
- Contribute to strategic growth plans including new product development, market expansion, and capital investments.
People & Process
- Evaluate and enhance existing people, processes, systems, and technologies to scale more efficiently.
- Lead recruiting and staffing for operational roles as needed.
- Implement performance management processes that align individual accountability with company goals.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as an Operations Manager, or equivalent senior role in manufacturing.
- Track record of successfully managing the manufacturing process and leading diverse operational teams.
- Strong understanding of production workflows.
- Excellent organizational, leadership, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
- Proficiency in business systems including Katana and Microsoft Office Suite is a plus.
Nice to Have
- Experience scaling an emerging brand or entrepreneurial venture.
- Familiarity with wholesale/retail sales cycles and B2B relationships.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Passion for American-made goods, home décor, or lifestyle brands.
Why Rustic Marlin?
- Purpose-driven company with a loyal customer base and deep New England roots.
- Opportunity to take a leadership role in a meaningful, creative business.
- Close-knit, energetic team and a supportive ownership group eager to collaborate.
- Strong foundation with national retail relationships and growth momentum.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $70,000 - $80,000