Director of Operations (Manufacturing / Plant Operations)

Moorestown, NJ

up to–$180,000 base (flexible) + discretionary bonus

Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Director of Operations/Plant Manager to lead a high-volume manufacturing facility producing pressure-sensitive adhesive products for industrial and commercial markets. This role is ideal for a strong operational leader who thrives in a plant environment, values consistency and execution, and enjoys being close to the floor driving results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all manufacturing operations including production, scheduling, shipping, maintenance, and procurement
• Drive consistent, high-quality production with a focus on efficiency, yield, waste reduction, and on-time delivery
• Oversee a unionized workforce and maintain strong labor relationships
• Manage and develop supervisors, planners, and support teams across operations
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to improve throughput, quality, and cost
• Own production planning, inventory control, and working capital optimization
• Partner with leadership on capital projects, equipment upgrades, and process improvements
• Maintain strong communication across operations, engineering, supply chain, and leadership
• Lead plant performance reporting, KPIs, and operational metrics
• Support new product introductions and process optimization
• Serve as the day-to-day operational leader for a multi-shift manufacturing facility

What They’re Looking For

• Proven operations leader with hands-on manufacturing leadership experience
• Strong background in continuous manufacturing environments (coating, converting, film, adhesives, chemicals, or similar)
• Experience managing union environments
• Comfortable leading a plant with multiple departments and shifts
• Execution-focused leader who can balance people, process, and performance
• Able to operate at both a strategic and tactical level

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related)
• 10–15+ years of progressive operations or plant leadership experience
• Experience in pressure-sensitive adhesives, coating, converting, or related manufacturing strongly preferred
• Proven success driving operational efficiency, quality, and cost reduction
• Experience with ERP systems
• Strong understanding of safety, compliance, and labor relations
• Comfortable working flexible hours as required by production demands
• Willingness to travel occasionally (approx. 10%)