WHAT IS A DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS ?
The Director of Operations identifies, develops and implements programs and processes that support the factory operations, its customers and CIT growth objectives and manage activities with a focus on continuous improvement in safety, quality, manufacturing, customer service, engineering, supply chain and human resources. The director of operations is directly responsible for site operational performance and corporate reporting requirements.
An Overview of Operations Director Responsibilities and Qualifications
1. Director of Operations Tasks
- Provide overall leadership, strategic direction, and coordination to the manufacturing, operations, and engineering functions.
- Responsible for plant operational performance including safety, quality, delivery, cost and inventory as well as process development and new product development.
- Responsible for plant financial performance and related budgeting and financial planning processes.
- Partner with business GM to develop and implement plans to meet business profitability and growth objectives.
- Directly responsible for the development and execution of factory and engineering related activities and to support commercial activities.
- Ensure that continuous improvement processes are established and in practice.
- Evaluate and approve capital equipment requirements and recommended acquisitions.
- Develop and maintain effective positive working relations with internal and external customers.
- Ensure compliance with governmental, customer-required and company policies, processes and procedures.
- Possess understanding and the ability to communicate corporate policies, philosophies, and guidelines of conduct and ensure that the operations organization meets or exceeds the core values as described in the employee handbook.
- Drive a positive and team-oriented work environment
2. Director of Operations Ability, Knowledge and Experience
- Flex Circuit and/or PCB manufacturing experience preferred.
- Significant experience in prototyping and engineer-to-order manufacturing environments preferred.
- Experience scaling up proto-type operations to full production.
- Familiarity with medical industry quality systems desirable.
- Ability to review, communicate and analyze financial and operational performance.
- Demonstrated proficiency utilizing networked PC's using Windows, Microsoft Office &/or ERP/MRP software systems such as SAP.
- Capable of presenting to all levels of management or customers.
- Lean manufacturing knowledge.
- Demonstrated ability to make positive impact decisions, prioritize and meet or exceed deadlines.
- Demonstrated ownership for decisions and actions; facilitates accountability.
- Ability to work variable extended hours may include extensive travel at times which can occur evenings or weekends.
- Ability to obtain and maintain valid passports to travel overseas when required.
- Ability to perform well under pressure and respond constructively to difficult situations in a timely manner.
- Strong interpersonal skills and experience and proven results in continuous improvement.
Career Overview FAQs
What does a career overview explain?
A career overview explains what a profession involves, including the purpose of the role, the type of work professionals typically perform, and how the position contributes to organizations or industries. It helps readers understand the field before exploring more detailed resources such as job responsibilities, required skills, and career requirements.
What do professionals in this career typically do?
Professionals in this field usually manage projects or tasks, collaborate with teams, analyze information, and solve problems related to business or organizational objectives. Daily responsibilities may vary depending on experience level, specialization, and the organization where the role is performed.
What skills are commonly required for this career?
Most careers require a combination of technical skills related to the profession and professional skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, and analytical thinking. These abilities help professionals perform effectively in different work environments and across various organizational roles.
What is the typical career path in this field?
Many professionals begin in entry-level roles where they gain foundational knowledge and practical experience. Over time, they may progress to mid-level or senior positions that involve greater responsibility, specialization, or leadership within their organization or industry.
How can someone start a career in this field?
Starting a career in this field typically involves building relevant knowledge, gaining practical experience, and developing the key skills associated with the profession. Preparing strong application materials, such as a targeted resume and cover letter, can also help candidates pursue entry-level opportunities successfully.
Editorial Process
Lamwork content is developed through structured review of publicly available job postings and documented hiring trends.
Editorial operations are managed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor, with research direction and final oversight by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead. Content is periodically reviewed to reflect observable labor market changes.