Director, Operations

Director, Operations

The Director of Operations will lead all production, maintenance, and material management teams operating our 24/7/365 Mechanical Separation Factory at our Battery Material Campus (BMC) in Ridgeville, SC. This senior leader will drive long-term operational excellence, optimize processes, and ensure the efficient and consistent ability of their team to meet quarterly production and cost reduction targets. This individual will also work cross-functionally with leaders in Supply Chain, Business Development, and Design Engineering to achieve company revenue, technology development, and strategic growth plans as needed.

This role requires a focus on both high-level strategy and operational oversight, guiding the development of organizational capabilities, improving performance, and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. This role will report to the Vice President of Operations for the Carolina BMC.

Responsibilities Will Include:

• Lead a culture of safety and improve the safety of the factory manufacturing environment over time
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement to deliver safety, quality, productivity, and cost optimization
• Set clear goals and expectations for the team. Measure performance, provide feedback, and hold leaders accountable
• Conduct performance evaluations for employment decisions to include promotions, salary adjustments, and terminations
• Build an enjoyable company culture which motivates employees to perform at their best through positive encouragement and consistent feedback
• Plan workforce requirements, supervise recruitment and training of staff, and conduct performance evaluations
• Work closely with support staff (HR, Finance, Safety, Ops Integration, and other leaders) to build and secure support and resources for projects and initiatives

Desired Qualifications:

• Greater than 7 years of direct leadership experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience leading a team in chemical, mining, or heavy industrial environments preferred
• Demonstrated ability to handle changing priorities and use good judgment in stressful situations
• Demonstrated ability to successfully navigate the staffing lifecycle, including interviewing, hiring, performance management, promotions, and terminations
• Experience developing and implementing performance metrics, process improvement, and Lean methodologies
• Strong and demonstrated effective verbal, written, and listening skills, and professional telephone skills and manners
• Ability to analyze, create, and effectively communicate analyses with all levels of employees, management, suppliers, and customers
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office - Windows, Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
• Should be able to work in environments with variable noise levels, lighting conditions, and temperature
• Additional duties, tasks, and responsibilities may be assigned as the role evolves
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, engineering or chemistry is strongly preferred
• Experience in responsible care programs and process safety management preferred
• A passion for sustainability and making the world a better place!

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to talk, listen, and speak clearly on the telephone and other means of communication

Working Conditions:

• This position will be supporting a heavy industrial manufacturing process with exposure to loud noises, heavy equipment, and occasional outdoor activity.
• Must be available/on-call to support 24/7/365 as needed.
• Domestic and/or International Travel required up to 25%.