Director of Operations

Overview

Noratel North America is searching for a proactive Operations Director to oversee manufacturing activities across three locations in the United States and Mexico. This hands-on leader will be based in Hobart, Indiana, and will be directly accountable for the operational success of the North American manufacturing network, including on-time delivery, efficiency, cost management, capacity utilization, inventory control, and working capital performance. This is an on-site role requiring frequent visits to our Nogales, Mexico facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive robust operational performance across manufacturing sites in the U.S. and Mexico
• Improve on-time delivery, productivity, operational effectiveness, capacity use, and manage working capital efficiently
• Set clear performance targets with contingency plans for risk mitigation
• Ensure full compliance with safety and quality standards under QHSE oversight
• Champion Noratel’s Continuous Improvement system deployment, implementing Lean manufacturing, 5S, daily management, and structured problem-solving directly on the production floor
• Standardize operational routines and processes throughout the network
• Oversee supply chain execution at site level, including production planning, scheduling, inventory management, warehousing, and logistics
• Implement disciplined Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) and production planning consistent across locations
• Collaborate with Procurement to manage purchased materials inventory and maintain supply chain continuity
• Ensure effective utilization of ERP and MRP systems such as Sage 500 for capacity planning, scheduling, and materials management
• Lead cost reduction in operations through process improvements, labor efficiency, yield optimization, and scrap reduction
• Work closely with Engineering on value analysis and engineering changes (VAVE), industrialization, and new product introductions
• Guide the strategic planning of manufacturing footprint, capacity, asset utilization, and capital investment in North America
• Provide leadership and professional development to Site Managers, nurturing a performance-oriented culture aligned with Noratel's values

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Master’s degree or MBA preferred
• At least 10 years of operational management experience in manufacturing
• Proven success managing multi-site, multi-cultural manufacturing operations in the U.S. and Mexico
• Hands-on expertise in Lean manufacturing, 5S, and Continuous Improvement methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to reduce manufacturing costs and lead VAVE initiatives
• Proficient with ERP/MRP systems, specifically Sage 500 preferred
• Experience directing manufacturing footprint and capacity optimization projects
• Strong financial acumen related to working capital, inventory, capacity use, and cost management
• Fluency in English required; Spanish language skills are highly desirable

Key Competencies

• Visible and engaged leadership on the shop floor
• Operational and financial discipline
• Analytical problem-solving focused on root causes
• Strong accountability and results-driven mindset
• Capability to lead diverse teams across cultures and locations
• Effective development and succession planning skills
• Practical, resilient, and decisive leadership approach

What Noratel Offers

• Competitive executive remuneration with base salary and performance incentives
• A senior leadership position overseeing three manufacturing sites
• Authority to shape operational strategy, footprint, and investments
• Interaction with senior leaders across North America and globally
• Chance to lead comprehensive operational transformation in the U.S. and Mexico
• Opportunities for professional growth within Noratel and the discoverIE Group