Operations Director

Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23000 employees operating in over 150 countries Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the worlds most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions.

Operations Director

Location: Holland MI (open to relocate)
Reports to: Vice President Operations

THE ROLE

The Operations Director is responsible for overseeing the efficient execution of high-mix low-volume Configure-to-Order (CTO) and Engineer-to-Order (ETO) production ensuring alignment with Xylems Lean Production System and continuous improvement objectives. This leader will drive operational excellence cost efficiency and customer satisfaction while developing a problem-solving culture across the site.

The role involves end-to-end site leadership including strategy deployment operational execution safety quality delivery cost management and team development.

We offer a full benefits package including Flexible Time Off (FTO) for salaried positions health dental vision investment savings plans and additional miscellaneous benefits.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

To perform the job successfully an individual must be able to execute each essential duty satisfactorily.

Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Directly responsible for all site operations including manufacturing quality materials and logistics for CTO & ETO products in a high-mix low-volume environment.
• Lead the Lean Production System implementation embedding standardized work visual management and flow principles to enhance operational efficiency.
• Develop and execute site transformation strategies ensuring alignment with Xylems global manufacturing vision and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Establish a culture of structured problem-solving using methodologies such as A3 Thinking PDCA 8D DMAIC and Kaizen.
• Own operational KPIs including safety quality on-time delivery (OTD) lead time reduction cost efficiency and productivity.
• Ensure site compliance with ISO and other regulatory quality standards.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Management

• Champion Lean and Six Sigma methodologies utilizing Value Stream Mapping (VSM) Standard Work and 5S to eliminate waste and enhance operational agility.
• Improve flexibility in production to handle complex CTO and ETO requirements while maintaining cost competitiveness.
• Lead cost reduction initiatives leveraging Lean tools automation and digital manufacturing solutions.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with Engineering Supply Chain and Product Management to optimize lead times inventory management and process efficiency.

People Leadership & Cultural Development

• Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to direct reports fostering a culture of ownership accountability and problem-solving.
• Ensure that all team members live a safety culture driving towards zero harm in the workplace.
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance Lean and problem-solving capabilities across all levels.
• Promote an environment of continuous learning employee engagement and cross-functional teamwork.
• Work closely with senior leadership to define and execute site growth strategies succession planning and talent development initiatives.

Financial & Business Performance

• Own the sites operational budget cost controls and CAPEX planning ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce operating costs while maintaining high standards for customer experience and product quality.
• Ensure operational financial targets are met by driving efficiency improvements and strategic investments.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Bachelors degree in Engineering Business or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 10 years of experience in manufacturing operations leadership preferably in a high-mix low-volume CTO/ETO production environment.
• Proven experience in Lean Production Systems implementation and developing a problem-solving culture.
• Strong knowledge of Lean principles (TPS Kaizen Standard Work 5S Value Stream Mapping PDCA 8D DMAIC etc.).
• Demonstrated expertise in supply chain alignment production planning and quality management.
• Strong financial acumen including experience in budgeting cost control and CAPEX management.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage and influence teams at all levels.

Preferred:

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (SAP Oracle etc.).
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).
• Familiarity with ISO FDA or other regulatory manufacturing requirements.
• Prior experience leading a multi-site or complex engineered product operation.

#LI-NH1

Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage conservation and re-use. Our products impact public utilities industrial sectors residential areas and commercial buildings with a commitment to providing smart metering network technologies and advanced analytics for water electric and gas utilities. Partner with us in creating a world where water challenges are met with ingenuity and dedication; where we recognize the power of inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allowing us to compete more effectively around the world.