Director of Operations

Role Overview

This position is responsible for steering and improving the full operational workflow from start to finish. The role works closely with Design, Product Development, and Sourcing while also overseeing Planning, Production, and Costing functions so products are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The work must stay aligned with brand direction, retailer expectations, and company goals.

As a central operational lead, this person helps connect teams, reduce business risk, and strengthen processes across the product journey from development through bulk manufacturing and final delivery.

Core Responsibilities

Operational leadership

• Direct and manage all operational areas to keep production, costing, planning, and delivery running smoothly.
• Work as the main operations partner to Brand, Design, Planning, and Sourcing leaders in support of seasonal and long-term business plans.
• Set priorities, define workflows, and ensure accountability across cross-functional teams.

Product creation and execution

• Guide key checkpoints in the product creation process, including pre-cost reviews, sourcing coordination, and readiness for execution.
• Partner with Sourcing and align with Costing to confirm product feasibility, protect margin targets, and reduce risk before retailer line reviews.
• Spot and resolve development or production issues early so they do not affect timing, cost, or quality.

Sourcing, production, and cost control

• Coordinate with Sourcing and supervise Production teams to ensure sourcing plans match brand, retailer, and sustainability expectations.
• Oversee cost control, margin outcomes, and pricing discipline across all programs.
• Assist with negotiations for raw materials, factories, and product CM placement alongside Sourcing leadership.

Cross-functional coordination

• Act as a major integration point between Design, Product Development, Planning, Production, Quality, and Account Management.
• Maintain strong communication and alignment with internal stakeholders and global partners to support timely decisions.
• Oversee Planning and Replenishment teams where needed to support demand planning, delivery flow, and inventory goals.

Process improvement and governance

• Create, roll out, and continuously refine operational processes, standards, and best practices that improve scalability and efficiency.
• Make sure milestone calendars, operational checkpoints, and governance structures are consistently followed.
• Use reports, KPIs, and operational reviews to drive decisions based on data.

People leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop operations team members to create a high-performing and accountable team.
• Evaluate team structure, delegate responsibilities effectively, and ensure the business is properly staffed.
• Build a collaborative, solution-focused culture across the organization.

Qualifications

Experience

• 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in operations, production, sourcing, or supply chain leadership within apparel or consumer products.
• Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional operations in a high-volume, fast-moving environment.
• Strong working knowledge of product development, costing, sourcing, and manufacturing processes.

Skills and competencies

• Strategic mindset with strong ability to execute plans effectively.
• Clear cross-functional leadership and communication abilities.
• Solid grasp of calendars, cost drivers, and risk management in apparel operations.
• Comfortable balancing detailed execution with broader business priorities.
• Experience working with global teams and overseas partners.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Finance, Supply Chain Management, Textile Engineering, or Industrial Engineering.

Compensation

The stated annual salary is $175,000.