Position Summary:
Walther Arms Inc. is a fast-growing U.S. firearms manufacturer focused on delivering high-performance reliable and innovative products to the defense sporting and tactical markets. As we continue to scale were seeking a highly capable Director of Operations to lead our manufacturing and supply chain functions drive operational excellence and help build a world-class production environment.
The Director of Operations will be a key member of the leadership team responsible for the strategic and day-to-day execution of manufacturing supply chain and operational activities. This individual will play a pivotal role in optimizing production processes ensuring quality and compliance managing vendor and logistics networks and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-paced early-growth environment that requires deep operational experience strong analytical thinking and the ability to scale systems and teams efficiently.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Manufacturing Operations:
- Oversee all manufacturing activities including safety quality on-time delivery and ensuring efficiency with a strong presence on the shop floor.
- Develop and implement scalable production systems capacity planning and workforce strategies.
- Manage coach and develop production supervisors and frontline team members to ensure high performance and alignment with company goals.
- Collaborate with engineering quality supply chain and product development teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely delivery of high-quality products.
- Communicate goals challenges and progress clearly across teams.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices to support consistent production and compliance with industry regulations.
- Participate in strategic planning for capacity expansion capital investment and workforce development.
- Champion employee engagement and foster a positive work environment built on trust respect and continuous improvement.
- Build a culture of root cause problem-solving with a sense of urgency and ownership.
- Ensure compliance with ATF OSHA and other regulatory requirements specific to firearms manufacturing.
Supply Chain & Logistics:
- Lead supply chain management team including procurement inventory vendor relations and material planning.
- Drive optimization of supplier performance negotiate contracts and manage sourcing strategies.
- Develop systems to ensure traceability compliance and risk mitigation across the supply chain.
Continuous Improvement:
- Champion a culture of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement throughout operations.
- Identify and eliminate process inefficiencies; implement KPIs and performance metrics.
- Lead cost reduction initiatives without sacrificing quality or compliance.
- Promote a culture of quality accountability and process ownership.
Strategic Leadership:
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering product development sales finance) to align operational goals with company objectives.
- Build and develop high-performing teams across operations production and supply chain.
- Take a proactive role in strategy planning and execution as part of our core team.
Qualifications & Requirements :
- Bachelors degree in Engineering Operations Management Supply Chain or related field (Masters or MBA preferred).
- 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations preferably in firearms or a precision manufacturing related industry.
- 5 years in a senior leadership role with demonstrated success in scaling operations.
- Deep knowledge of Lean TPS and other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Proven experience in identifying and driving improvements in manufacturing.
- Proven experience in supply chain optimization and vendor management.
- Experience in machining is a plus.
- Strong working knowledge of regulatory requirements specific to firearms manufacturing (ATF ITAR etc.) is a plus.
- Excellent leadership communication and organizational skills.
- Experience implementing or managing ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing environment is a plus.
What We Offer:
- Opportunity to help shape the future of a high-growth mission-driven company.
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Benefits package including health dental vision paid vacation and more.
- A collaborative entrepreneurial team environment where innovation is encouraged.
As part of our hiring process Walther requires all candidates to undergo a background check and drug screening. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of these screenings.
Required Experience:
Director