New

Director, Operations

Watlow
parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, Missouri, Hannibal
6 Industrial Loop Road (Show on map)
Oct 17, 2025
Working at Watlow Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for nearly a century. Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility. About the Role As the Director of Operations for Watlow's Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Hannibal, Missouri, you will lead the strategic and operational performance of a high-volume manufacturing facility specializing in advanced thermal systems and components. In this role, you will have direct responsibility for the production organization at the Hannibal site, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations that meet performance, delivery, and cost objectives. You will collaborate with Business Units (BUs), and corporate functional leaders to translate business strategies into executable operational plans for the Hannibal facility. A key aspect of this role will be coordinating with shared engineering and support resources to scale new technologies and products, ensuring smooth transitions from development to production. Reporting directly to the Senior Director of Operations, you will provide both strategic leadership and hands-on oversight-developing talent within your team, driving accountability, and fostering a Lean, safety-focused, and continuous improvement culture. Your success will be measured by your ability to optimize production efficiency, enhance team member engagement, and ensure that the Hannibal facility continues to operate as a model of operational excellence within Watlow's global network. Your Key Responsibilities Lead all manufacturing operations to consistently achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. Build, coach, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. Drive the application of Lean principles to streamline processes, improve throughput, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness. Collaborate with Business Units (BUs) to ensure seamless integration of new products into production. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track performance, productivity, and Lean progress. Ensure compliance with all regulatory, environmental, and industry standards. Manage budgets, resources, and capital investments with a focus on efficiency and return. Champion quality by implementing robust control measures and promoting a culture of excellence throughout manufacturing. Evaluate and introduce new technologies, systems, and methods to strengthen production capabilities and competitiveness. Lead site-level engagement initiatives that align with Watlow's purpose, vision, and strategy. Promote collaboration, trust, and open communication across leadership, teams, and stakeholders. Identify and pursue cost-reduction opportunities across products, processes, and projects. Represent the site within the Watlow Business System (WBS) framework and ensure consistent adoption of best practices. Travel domestically and internationally as needed (<10%). Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree required in business or engineering Proven Industrial Manufacturing leadership experience Project management experience 10+ years of lean leadership and proven track record of implementation Desired Qualifications Advanced degree (MS/MBA) preferred in engineering or business Change management experience Benefits: The Watlow Total Compensation Plan The health, well-being and financial stability of you and your family is a high priority to us. The Watlow Total Rewards Plan includes competitive compensation and a full range of life and career enhancing benefits: Annual Incentive Program 401(k) plan that includes a company match on your contribution and an annual company contribution that is tied to company performance Wellness incentives Employee Personal Assistance Program Dental, medical, vision and short-term and long-term disability insurance Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation Parental leave Tuition reimbursement Diversity & Inclusion We proactively embrace diversity in all its dimensions across our company and cultivate a culture of inclusion and forward thinking that respects and reflects each team member's individual strengths, views, and experiences. Watlow takes pride in being an inclusive equal opportunity employer and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Please let us know confidentially if you need or require any special accommodations to participate in our recruiting process by emailing us at accommodations@Watlow.com.