Director of Operations

Our Client

Based in Eastern Ontario, our client is recognized as a leader in the design and manufacturing of custom steel and stainless steel products for heavy-duty trucks. With expertise that combines innovation, durability, and quality, our client serves a North American clientele.

Position Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Director of Operations will be responsible for:

• Defining and implementing the operational strategy aligned with the company’s financial, commercial, and growth objectives;
• Overseeing and optimizing all manufacturing operations (production, planning, logistics, quality, maintenance);
• Ensuring production targets are met (volume, quality, deadlines);
• Optimizing production flow, equipment utilization, and bottleneck management;
• Developing and implementing continuous improvement strategies (Lean, 5S, waste reduction, efficiency);
• Ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety standards and quality policies;
• Leading and mobilizing production teams, including workforce management (hiring, training, evaluation);
• Working closely with executive management, engineering, procurement, and sales teams to achieve business objectives;
• Analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) and preparing management reports;
• Actively participating in leadership decisions (investments, production capacity, strategic priorities);
• Ensuring operational profitability (margins, conversion costs, overall efficiency);
• Contributing to medium- and long-term planning (capacity, equipment, workforce).

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Administration, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent experience;
• Minimum of 7 to 10 years of experience in operations management in a manufacturing environment (metallurgical sector or heavy vehicles, an asset);
• Dynamic, results-oriented individual with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously and meet tight deadlines;
• Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to manage and motivate multidisciplinary teams;
• Strong team player with excellent communication and negotiation skills;
• Excellent command of both French and English (spoken and written);
• Knowledge of ERP systems and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.

Desired Soft Skills

• Financial acumen
• Strong communication skills
• Change management
• Leadership and team mobilization
• Attention to detail
• Analytical mindset
• Manufacturing vision
• Problem-solving skills
• Managerial courage
• Agility

Position Challenges

• Quickly understanding the company culture and leading change management initiatives;
• Managing a pace driven by the nature of the products and clients;
• Team mobilization and coaching;
• Implementing best practices and improving plant operational performance guided by continuous improvement principles.

Proposed Interview Process

• First interview with the Glasford International Canada recruitment firm;
• Second interview with the General Manager and the Human Resources Director;
• Third interview with the Deputy General Manager and the Continuous Improvement Consultant;
• Psychometric assessment.