Operations Director
Description

Make an Impact. Lead with Purpose. Drive Operational Excellence.



At Durham Exchange Club Industries (DECI), our mission is both simple and powerful: to open doors of opportunity for individuals with disabilities. We are committed to helping people with vocational disabilities discover their strengths, build self-worth, and achieve their full potential through meaningful work and competitive wages. DECI is committed to delivering excellence for our customers while fostering a workplace where every individual can thrive.


We are seeking a dynamic Operations Director who is passionate about both operational excellence and people-centered leadership. In this role, you’ll oversee production, warehouse, and facilities operations while helping advance a mission that truly makes a difference in the community. This is more than a leadership role - it’s an opportunity to shape efficient systems, empower diverse teams, and contribute to a purpose-driven organization where your impact is both measurable and meaningful.


What You’ll Do
Leadership & Operational Strategy

  • Lead and inspire teams across Production, Warehouse, Facilities, and Engineering
  • Collaborate with Production Managers to optimize scheduling, quality, job setup, and new product introduction
  • Partner with the COO on long-term strategy, capacity planning, and technology implementation
  • Drive a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Operational Excellence

  • Oversee inventory management, space planning, and equipment allocation
  • Ensure seamless movement of materials within the ERP system and into production
  • Monitor production progress to meet - and exceed - customer deadlines
  • Develop and implement KPIs and reporting tools to enhance productivity and reduce costs

Facilities & Maintenance Management

  • Manage preventative maintenance and repairs for production equipment and infrastructure
  • Coordinate with vendors for installations, service contracts, and complex repairs
  • Ensure facilities meet operational needs, including support for lease customers

Quality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement

  • Ensure adherence to ISO 9001, FDA, and CARF standards
  • Lead resolution of quality issues and implement preventative solutions
  • Maintain a strong focus on safety, organization, and operational excellence

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with Sales, Customer Service, and Production teams to align on customer needs and schedules
  • Foster strong relationships across departments and with external stakeholders
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on operations, facilities, and inventory

People Leadership & Development

  • Coach, mentor, and develop leaders and team members
  • Oversee hiring, performance management, and staff development
  • Champion a positive, inclusive culture that supports individuals of all abilities
  • Promote professional growth through training and development opportunities

Why DECI? At DECI, we believe in creating opportunities, empowering people, and delivering excellence. You’ll join a team dedicated to making a difference - while building a career that’s both impactful and rewarding.

  • Mission-driven work
  • Collaborative, people-first culture
  • Opportunities for growth and leadership
  • Commitment to inclusion

Ready to lead, innovate, and make an impact? Apply today and help shape the future of operations at DECI. 

Requirements

 

 What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Business, or related field – or – 5+ years of successful leadership experience in operations, production, or project management
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple teams and priorities
  • Excellent communication and conflict resolution abilities
  • Experience in quality systems, compliance, and process improvement
  • High level of judgment, initiative, and problem-solving capability
  • Advanced organizational skills with the ability to manage complex operations
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)

What Sets You Apart

  • You lead with integrity, empathy, and accountability
  • You thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments
  • You’re passionate about continuous improvement and innovation
  • You’re committed to equity and inclusion

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to lift/move up to 35 lbs. and support production tasks as needed
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and schedules
  • Willingness to assist in emergency situations (including restraint if certified)
  • Maintain accurate records and ensure secure facility operations

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Computer Skills: Exceptional computer training/experience. MS Office environment (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint).

Other Requirements: U.S. Citizen or U.S. work qualification



Salary Description
95,000-112,500