Director of Operations, Thermal Engineered Materials

Job Requirements

Why work for us? 

Alkegen brings together two of the world’s leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we’re delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before.  

With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry’s most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways. 

The Operations Director directly manages a group of manufacturing facilities within a business unit and reports directly to the Senior Director of Operations. Key requirements for the job include:  a)driving EBITDA at each plant and for the business unit as a whole b) managing cost within the business unit and at each plant c)developing strategies to increase overall capacity and throughput within the business unit d) developing Plant Managers and other leaders within the business unit for future growth within the company e) optimizing working capital within the business unit  f) drive OTIF to world class levels to enhance the customer experience g) drive quality levels to optimum levels to ensure customer satisfaction h) optimize the use of capital expenditures within the network to support the overall mission of the company.

This position may play a part in due diligence for mergers and acquisitions as well as the integration of acquired companies within Alkegen. In addition, this role identifies and develops strategies for plant consolidations, supply chain optimization, inventory control and capacity increase across the Business Unit. 

Responsibilities

Drive Profitable Growth: 

Financial Acumen – Analyzes items and makes decisions through a financial lens. Has a broad understanding of products, markets, financials, sales, and operations. Strong analytical skills, Budget and P&L management, ROI, EBITDA and capital management. Drives for results to achieve short-term and long-term financial targets. 

Create Alignment and Accountability: 

Strategy - Able to set the vision and strategy for the Plant Managers; able to gain alignment and excel in execution. Actively integrates newly acquired companies into the Business Unit to maximize value. 

General Management - Able to effectively deal with extensive complexity and multiple issues. Able to manage the P&L, control costs, and drive the business results.  Balances the short term with long term needs. English speaking capability required at higher level. Can efficiently evaluate potential acquisition targets for operational and financial robustness.

Build Strategic Partnerships:  

Leadership – Is a consistent role model for Alkegen’s Core Values.  Possesses a strong sense of urgency and takes informed risks to achieve business objectives. Has the tenacity and drive to turn innovation into action.  Has influencing and networking skills to drive results in a matrix organization. Has a strong presence and leads by example. Takes accountability and has a no-excuse attitude. Has cultural sensitivity and can work across cultures.  Strong communication skills are required. 

Innovation - Is a champion of new ideas and can influence and motivate key stakeholders to their innovation agenda. Can infect others with a shared sense of purpose and passion for new opportunities. Has an entrepreneurial mindset. 

Enhance Organizational Talent:  

Talent Development - Is able to build a highly engaged organization and is seen as a team motivator. Has the ability to hire and develop great talent. Drives a performance mindset and replaces team members that are underperforming. Able to develop leadership across disciplines and cultures. 

Key Competencies: 

The Director of Operations candidate: 

• Is a consistent role model for the Alkegen Core Values. 
• Demonstrates excellent process management and change management skills. 
• Drives Lean operating principles at all facilities within the business unit
• Ensures the maintenance and operability of capital equipment within the business unit
• Conducts regular audits of all plants within the business unit to ensure Alkegen operating standards are being met.
• Drives a culture of safety within all plants in the business unit.
• Has a focus on service levels and maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Stays updated on industry trends and new technologies for possible implementation.
• Develops relationships that enable effective leading, coaching, and development of team members. 
• Is a highly motivated problem solver able to balance priorities well under pressure. 
• Has influencing and networking skills to drive results internally in a matrix organization and externally with customers and vendors. 
• Communicates clearly with all stakeholder groups; quickly builds trust and respect. 
• Effectively manages deadlines, drives execution, and has a bias towards action. 
• Displays sound economic thinking skills and financial acumen. 

Qualifications & Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Management or related field required, MBA preferred. 
• 10-15 years of related experience focused within Manufacturing and Operations Management, particularly in continuous operations and capital-intensive operations. History of leading manufacturing operations successfully.  Experience in collaborating with Labor Unions, etc. 
• Track record of safety dedication and driving/supporting safety improvements. 
• Involvement within supply chain, quality, safety, engineering, planning and logistics activities. 
• Experience of practical application of Lean, Total Productive Maintenance, and/or Six Sigma tools. 
• Track record of driving continuous improvement and cost savings results. 
• Experience working to prioritize capital projects and establishing an annual business plan. 
• Practiced in financial analysis of operational performance. 

At Alkegen, we strive every day to help people breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before. We believe that diversity and inclusion is central to this mission and to our impact. Our diverse and inclusive culture drives our growth & innovation, and we nurture it by actively embracing our differences and using our varied perspectives to solve the complex challenges facing our changing and diverse world. 

Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, nation of origin, religion, color, gender identity and expression, age, disability, education, opinions, culture, languages spoken, veteran’s status, or any other protected class.