Director of Operations | Plastic Packaging Solutions

We are seeking a Director of Operations with a strong track record of leadership and a passion for driving operational excellence. This individual will oversee all aspects of plant and business operations, including safety, quality, production performance, maintenance, and process improvement. As a key member of the leadership team, this role requires sound judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to make data-driven decisions.

Client Details

A U.S.-based manufacturing group specializing in protective materials is focused on developing energy-efficient building products and sustainable paper and plastic packaging solutions. The organization also invests in and operates recycling facilities for biomass and reprocessed materials to support a circular economy.

With multiple facilities across the southern and eastern United States, the company serves a broad range of industries, including building and construction, food and beverage, chemicals, industrial materials, lawn and garden, pet food, packaging, and transportation.

Description

Strategic and Business Planning

• Partner in developing the annual operating plan and capital expenditure budget.
• Align operational strategies with organizational goals to drive performance and profitability.

Operations and Safety Leadership

• Champion a culture of safety and ensure compliance with all regulatory and internal standards.
• Oversee the execution of capital projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget.
• Manage day-to-day plant operations, focusing on efficiency, productivity, and quality.
• Track key performance indicators such as equipment uptime, operating costs, and OEE to optimize output.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance processes, reduce waste, and strengthen environmental stewardship.
• Support sustainability efforts through recycling and resource optimization programs.

Team Leadership and Development

• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing, accountable operations team.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, safety, and quality across all levels of the organization.
• Encourage employee participation in problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Promote fairness, engagement, and recognition to maintain high morale.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching aligned with company values and performance expectations.

Profile

Required Skills/Abilities

• Unwavering integrity and ethics
• Self-motivated and execution-oriented leader with a passion for winning
• Excellent communicator with strong influencing skills
• Natural collaborative leader and a team-builder (coach)
• Change agent with a high degree of personal accountability
• Detail oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Agile entrepreneurial spirit with a resilient mindset
• Demonstrated ability to deliver solutions to problems without supervision

Education & Experience

• Very strong mechanical and technical background
• Paper/plastcs industry experience required
• Paper, laminating and coating experience a big plus!
• Minimum 5 years of manufacturing experience/ leadership experience in a production facility
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related preferred

Job Offer

• Competitive salary range of $145,000 - $180,000
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a medium-sized organization.
• Supportive work environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• Paid time off and holiday leave to support work-life balance.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.