Director of Operations (Distribution Center)

At Faber-Castell our vision is to unleash creative potential and our mission is to create experiences that inspire self-expression! 

Internationally known for superb quality, innovation and creativity, the Faber-Castell family of products remain unique throughout the world. Faber-Castell offers a “Companion for Life” portfolio of quality branded products with true points of difference. Our widely acclaimed brands include: Creativity for Kids® craft kits, Premium Children’s Art Products, Creative Studio for aspiring artists and adult students, Art & Graphic art materials, and Faber-Castell Fine Writing brands. 

Faber-Castell USA is looking for a highly motivated, efficiency-driven Director of Operations to join our growing organization. Based in our brand-new state-of-the-art facility in Independence, Ohio, the Director of Operations will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the facility, ensuring efficient and effective supply chain and logistics management. This leadership role requires a focus on optimizing workflows, managing staff, enhancing performance metrics, and maintaining high standards of safety and compliance. The Director of Operations will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage budgets, and collaborate with other departments to meet the company’s strategic goals.

The ideal candidate will foster a culture of operational excellence, drive key initiatives, and deliver consistent results. As a key member of the Faber-Castell USA Leadership Team, reporting to the CEO, this role will collaborate across departments to align goals and implement strategies that support the company's overall business plan.

Faber-Castell USA prioritizes health and safety by providing a clean, secure work environment and following rigorous safety protocols and guidelines.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee all Faber-Castell USA operational activities, including distribution (shipping & receiving), inventory control, quality control & regulatory compliance, facilities management, general assembly, purchasing, order processing, and international logistics.
• Build and maintain relationships with factory partners, coordinating purchasing activities directly from factories, ensuring that production timelines align with operational goals and inventory needs.
• Direct international logistics efforts, ensuring cost-efficient and timely product movement across the global supply chain.
• Manage order processing workflows to enhance order accuracy, expedite order fulfillment, and maintain alignment with production and inventory needs.
• Maximize operational efficiency and productivity through process analysis, interdepartmental collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Forecast multiple product lines in collaboration with cross-functional team members.
• Set strategic goals for operational efficiency, productivity enhancement, and cost optimization.
• Develop financial and budgetary plans for the Operations department, tracking costs and recommending efficiencies.
• Analyze current processes and performance metrics, recommending improvements where necessary.
• Develop, implement, and monitor day-to-day systems that provide clear visibility into operational goals, progress, and obstacles for our key initiatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with all department heads, external partners, and vendors to make decisions on strategic goals and operational activity.
• Plan, monitor, and analyze key metrics for day-to-day operations to ensure efficient, timely completion of tasks and projects.
• Develop and execute strategies for growth, identifying and implementing process improvements to maximize output and minimize costs.
• Lead team managers with integrity, fostering a trusting, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• Actively engage in performance management, providing regular coaching, mentoring, and development opportunities for team managers.

Requirements:

• 5-7 years’ experience in a distribution or operations setting.
• Minimum of five years in a leadership capacity.
• Bachelor’s degree in operations management or related business field preferred.
• Experience in both domestic and international freight industries.
• Experience with purchasing from overseas factories, particularly with Chinese suppliers and knowledge of the Chinese business environment.
• Strong understanding of international supply chains and logistics management.
• Proficiency with ERP and Warehouse Management Systems; Macola 10 ERP and Wisys WMS experience a plus.
• Experience with retailers a plus I.E> Amazon, Walmart, etc.
• Advanced Office 365 skills, including Microsoft Excel; Crystal Reports experience preferred.
• Strong competency in operational budgets, financial planning, and business plan development.
• Proven ability to develop innovative solutions for productivity and efficiency gains.
• Sharp analytical and quantitative analysis skills.
• Demonstrates attributes of an active “Team-Player” who thrives in a collaborative environment.