Operations Manager

Job Description

Confidential Search:

Job Title: Operations Manager - Polymer Solutions

Location: Multiple sites (e.g., Houston, TX; Charlotte, NC; Newark, NJ)

Irving Knight is partnered with an international manufacturer headquartered in the US, specialising in innovative polymer solutions for diverse applications. In this role, you will oversee operations related to the production and delivery of commodity and specialty polymer products, supporting industries such as automotive, packaging, healthcare, and construction. Commodity polymers include materials like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), used in high-volume applications such as plastic films, pipes, and containers. Specialty polymers include products like polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polyamides (nylons), tailored for high-performance applications in medical devices, aerospace components, and advanced coatings. Some travel between sites is required to ensure operational consistency and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations of polymer production facilities, ensuring efficient manufacturing processes and high-quality output.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize production capacity, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, sales, and supply chain, to align production with market demands and customer needs.
• Identify and adopt industry best practices to enhance operational performance and sustainability in polymer manufacturing.
• Monitor market trends and customer requirements to drive innovation in polymer solutions and strengthen partnerships.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across all operations.
• Lead and mentor teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in operations management within a manufacturing or technical industry, with specific expertise in polymer production or processing required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering required; advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
• Strong technical knowledge of polymer materials, including commodity polymers (e.g., PE, PP, PVC) and specialty polymers (e.g., PEEK, PTFE, polyamides).
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex operations across multiple sites, with a focus on efficiency and quality control.
• Willingness to travel between sites (e.g., Houston, TX; Charlotte, NC; Newark, NJ) as needed to support operations and collaboration.
• Excellent leadership and team collaboration skills, with the ability to drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with industry trends, polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding), and sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze data to inform operational decisions.