MISSION
PD Instore is a future-forward creator of brand solutions that enlightens, inspires, and transforms the consumer’s experience.
ABOUT PD
Founded in 1938, PD is a world-renowned design-to-build partner that crafts custom, future-forward brand solutions for some of the largest brands in retail.
Summary
PD is looking for an ambitious, optimistic, and curious Director of Manufacturing to own the performance and execution of PD’s manufacturing process and resources. A true leader who is accountable for driving excellence, operational discipline, and cross-functional alignment at scale. Above all, they lead with both strength and compassion, recognizing that people are at the core of operational success.
The Manufacturing Director brings practical manufacturing and operational experience, with the ability to build and scale a labor force to meet capacity needs while maintaining a thoughtful, well-structured approach to manufacturing flow. This leader thrives in dynamic environments, strategically solves problems in real time, and leverages subject matter experts (SMEs) to strengthen execution. You will be responsible for strengthening standards, elevating performance, and positioning PD for sustainable, profitable growth. And of course, have fun.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Lead day-to-day manufacturing operations with a focus on safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency.
- Establish clear expectations across work centers to ensure consistency, accountability, and performance.
- Align operational execution with company goals and production demands.
Workforce Development & Capacity Planning
- Build and develop a capable, engaged labor force aligned to current and future capacity needs.
- Maintain a strong connection to front-line workers, understanding challenges and enabling success.
- Create staffing strategies that balance productivity, flexibility, and scalability.
Manufacturing Planning & Workflow Design
- Develop and maintain thoughtful manufacturing plans that optimize organizational flow and throughput.
- Design and refine work center structures to support efficiency, clarity, and accountability.
- Continuously evaluate and improve workflow processes to eliminate bottlenecks and waste.
Problem Solving & Execution
- Respond to challenges in real time, making sound decisions with limited information when needed.
- Proactively identify issues and implement practical, effective solutions.
- Leverage internal and external SMEs to bridge knowledge gaps and strengthen outcomes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with engineering, supply chain, and leadership teams to ensure alignment and execution.
- Translate operational needs into actionable plans across functions.
- Foster a collaborative environment that encourages input, innovation, and shared ownership.
Competencies and Skills
- Multiple years of experience within manufacturing and/or operations
- High Degree of motivation, curiosity, passion & creativity
- Ability to set priorities, delegate work and coordinate efforts
- Excellent leadership skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Excellent organizational, research and analytical skills
- Ability to clearly and concisely document communication
- Strong decision-making, problem solving and time management skills
- Able to articulate ideas in both visual and verbal form to effectively convey ideas or instructions.
- Flexibility to travel between multiple PD locations
- Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working environment
Education/Certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Manufacturing/Engineering, Project Management, Production Management, Supply Chain Management or Business.
Experience
- 7-10 years managing experience in Project Management/Production Management environment/Supply Chain Management.
- Experience supporting business operations, managing large teams, managing vendor deliverables, communicating with customers
- Knowledge or experience with Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
- Knowledge or experience with ERP, Production Planning Techniques, Manufacturing Processes, Inventory and Logistical execution
- Knowledge or experience with Lean Manufacturing
- Knowledge or experience with Safety and Operating Safely in Manufacturing
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
- Walking, sitting, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, pulling and lifting may be required throughout the workday.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Communication, Manufacturing/Engineering, Project Management, Production Management, Supply Chain Management, or Business
- 7-10 years managing experience in project management, production management, or supply chain management
- Experience managing large teams, vendor deliverables, and supporting business operations
- Experience communicating with customers and cross-functional stakeholders
- Knowledge or experience with ERP systems
- Knowledge or experience with production planning techniques and manufacturing processes
- Experience with inventory and logistical execution
- Knowledge or experience with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement
- Knowledge or experience with compliance and regulatory requirements
- Knowledge or experience with safety and operating safely in manufacturing environments
- Proven leadership, communication, organizational, analytical, and decision-making skills
- Flexibility to travel between multiple PD locations
What We Do
PD Instore is a Minnesota-based design-to-build partner specializing in in-store visual merchandising solutions for the retail industry. They create future-forward brand solutions, including custom fixtures, POP displays, and full retail environments that enhance the consumer experience. By integrating creative design, engineering, and manufacturing, they help global brands elevate their physical presence through high-end, innovative store environments and strategic visual merchandising.
