Director, Operations

Company Overview:

The Tranzonic Companies is the hub for a strategic collection of manufacturing and sales companies that lead the way in multiple categories — from personal care and protection to textiles, from cleaning products to contamination control — to empower its distributor partners into the future. Their cohesive approach promotes operational efficiency and fuels innovation, while equipping its varied businesses to tackle the toughest challenges across industrial and manufacturing, healthcare and life sciences, food service, hospitality, transportation, and many other dynamic market segments. Tranzonic’s rapid growth, both organic and via acquisition, is powered by its team of driven, innovative problem-solvers and a culture of integrity and respect.

Position Summary:

The Director, Operations is responsible for overseeing all manufacturing, production, and distribution operations at the Knoxville, TN location across 2 sites and 300 associates. This role ensures operational excellence in safety quality, delivery and cost reduction while fostering a high-performance culture. The Senior Director will work closely with cross-functional teams, including Supply Chain, Quality, EHS, HR, and Finance, to align plant operations with overall business objectives.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee all plant operations, including production, maintenance, distribution, inventory.
• Develop and execute strategies to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other best practices to enhance processes.
• Ensure on-time production and delivery of products while maintaining high standards for quality.
• Oversight to distribution center execution, capacity and delivery.
• Develop and manage the plant’s budget, ensuring cost controls and financial targets are met.
• Drive inventory and cycle counting programs to ensure accuracy.
• Ensure Labor Management program utilized to drive standards and productivity.
• Lead maintenance and engineering to maximize machine up time and OEE.
• Analyze key performance metrics (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Optimize labor, materials, and equipment utilization to achieve cost reduction goals.
• Promote a culture of safety, ensuring all employees adhere to OSHA and company EHS (Environmental, Health & Safety) policies.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and industry standards related to manufacturing and distribution.
• Partner with the Quality team to maintain high product quality standards and resolve production issues proactively.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, including operations managers and supervisors.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and employee engagement.
• Drive talent development initiatives, including training programs and succession planning.
• Work closely with Supply Chain to optimize inventory levels and minimize disruptions.
• Partner with HR to drive workforce planning, staffing, and employee relations initiatives.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and efficiency.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing, plant operations, or supply chain management.
• 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multi-functional teams.
• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or related industries.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.
• Financial acumen, including budget management and cost control.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience managing a high-volume production facility.
• Knowledge of ERP systems (D365 preferred).
• Familiarity with automation and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Primarily on-site role at the Knoxville, TN plant.
• Occasional travel may be required for corporate meetings and supplier visits.