Director of Operations

LaSalle Network
Chicago, IL
The Director of Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of manufacturing and operational performance within a high-volume production environment. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership across production, maintenance, warehousing, safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Director of Operations is accountable for driving operational excellence, improving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, and ensuring business objectives are achieved safely, on time, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead day-to-day manufacturing and operational activities to ensure production, quality, cost, and delivery goals are consistently achieved.
  • Develop and execute operational strategies that improve productivity, efficiency, throughput, and overall plant performance.
  • Manage labor utilization, staffing levels, workforce planning, and operational resources to support business demands.
  • Drive a culture of accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop managers, supervisors, and functional leaders across operations, maintenance, warehouse, quality, and safety.
  • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve operational results.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams including engineering, supply chain, quality, finance, and human resources to support organizational objectives.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, regulatory, and company policies.
  • Oversee inventory management, production planning, and material flow to support customer demand and operational efficiency.
  • Identify and implement process improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and operational best practices.
  • Manage operational budgets and maintain accountability for labor, materials, maintenance, and facility expenses.
  • Utilize ERP systems, reporting tools, and data analytics to drive informed decision-making and performance improvements.
  • Support capital projects, facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and operational transformation initiatives.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within manufacturing, distribution, industrial, or operations environments.
  • Proven experience leading large teams in a fast-paced operational setting.
  • Demonstrated success improving productivity, safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
  • Experience managing multiple departments and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, continuous improvement, and operational excellence methodologies.
  • Experience with workforce planning, employee development, and performance management.
  • Background working in union, non-union, or mixed labor environments is a plus.
  • Experience overseeing budgets, capital expenditures, and financial performance metrics.
  • Proficiency with ERP systems, production reporting tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Leadership
  • Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing teams.
  • Strong coaching, mentoring, and employee development skills.
  • Results-driven leader with a hands-on management style.
Operational Excellence
  • Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, process improvement, and performance management.
  • Ability to balance strategic planning with daily operational execution.
  • Experience implementing systems, processes, and operational controls that drive sustainable results.
Problem Solving & Decision Making
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to identify root causes, develop solutions, and execute improvements.
  • Comfortable operating in dynamic environments with changing priorities.
Communication
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively communicate and influence at all levels of the organization.
Technical & Systems
  • Experience utilizing ERP, MRP, WMS, and business reporting systems.
  • Strong computer skills including Excel, Word, Outlook, and data analysis tools.
Work Environment
  • Manufacturing, distribution, or industrial environment with exposure to varying temperatures, machinery, and operational activity.
  • Frequent interaction with production, warehouse, maintenance, and office personnel.
  • Ability to walk production floors and operational areas for extended periods.
Key Details
  • Location: On-site in Chicago, IL
  • Compensation: $160,000 to $175,000 + eligibility to earn bonus
  • Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) available for enrollment
If this position interests you and you fit the requirements, apply today!

Thank you,

Rachel Stewart
LaSalle Network

#LI-RS3
Posted 2026-06-10

Recommended Jobs

Cannabis Transport & Delivery Agent

Silver Star Protection Group
Pekin, IL

Job Description Job Description Description: About Secure Transport Secure Transport, LLC is Illinois’ largest independent cannabis transportation provider. We specialize in the safe, effici…

View Details
Posted 2026-04-17

Discovery Business and System Analyst (Top Secret Clearance Required)

Contact Government Services, LLC
Chicago, IL

Job Description Job Description Discovery Business and System Analyst Employment Type: Full-Time, Executive-Level Department: Legal      CGS is seeking a dedicated Discovery Business and…

View Details
Posted 2026-04-11

Occupational Therapist (OT) - HomeCare on Fieldstone

Confidential
Champaign, IL

Overview The Home Care Occupational Therapist evaluates and develops treatment plans for patients of all ages to resume or adjust the activities of daily living. Collaborates with health care team …

View Details
Posted 2026-06-06

Handyman (Suburbs)

HOATalent
Woodstock, IL

Yellow Jacket Maintenance Services (YJM) is a trusted maintenance and repair partner serving community associations (HOAs, condos, and residential properties) across the Chicagoland area. We specia…

View Details
Posted 2026-06-05

Maintenance Specialist (Asphalt)

Allied Reliability
Summit, IL

ob Title: Maintenance Specialist OT: Overtime available Job Type: Full time Ability to rotate shift schedule* Constructs, installs, maintains and repairs any plant mechanical, structural, hy…

View Details
Posted 2026-02-12

Tax Manager

Brilliant Financial Search - IL
Vernon Hills, IL

Job Description Job Description Tax Manager - Indirect | Hybrid | $120,000 to $140,000 + Bonus/Benefits This role will own sales and use tax compliance, personal property tax, and business l…

View Details
Posted 2026-04-17

Physician - MD/DO - Interventional Cardiologist

Confidential
Mount Vernon, IL

SSM Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer:Community Description:About SSM Health:Pay Transparency: At SSM Health, we are committed to delivering exceptional healthcare services and our Illinois Reg…

View Details
Posted 2026-06-06

Respiratory Therapist

Confidential
New Boston, IL

Respiratory Therapist Career Opportunity Join Encompass Health's Respiratory Care Family: A Career of Impact Are you in search of a career that resonates with your heart and community? …

View Details
Posted 2026-06-09

US Project & Infrastructure Finance - Credit Analyst, Associate Director (Legal) - Chicago

Fitch Group
Chicago, IL

At Fitch, we have an open culture where employees are able to exchange ideas and perspectives, throughout the organization, irrespective of their seniority. Your voice will be heard allowing you to h…

View Details
Posted 2026-05-13