Introduction

Orion Cordage is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-performance synthetic cordage and rope solutions. With over 160 years of expertise, the company has cemented its reputation as an innovator in advanced polymer-based products, serving industries such as maritime, construction, renewable energy, and defense. Orion's commitment to engineering excellence is underscored by its ISO-9001 processes and patented technologies, ensuring products meet rigorous safety and durability standards. They are currently operating out of 2 plants in North America, Deseronto, Ontario Canada and Winslow, Maine USA.

Renowned for its customer-centric approach, Orion Cordage collaborates closely with clients to develop unique products that enhance operational efficiency and safety. They pride themselves on maintaining a loyal customer base, having returning customers for over 20 years. The business has grown 5% year over year as they integrate and acquire new manufacturing facilities. Their ability to become one of the biggest cordage manufacturing companies in North America is with their incredible R&D division, as they leverage cutting-edge materials, including high-modulus polyethylene and aramid fibers, to push the boundaries of strength-to-weight ratios and environmental resilience.

At its heart, Orion fosters a culture of integrity, teamwork, and continuous learning. Employees thrive in an environment that values cross-departmental collaboration, and innovation. Recognized as a top employer in multiple regions, Orion invests in employee well-being and community engagement initiatives. For professionals seeking to advance their careers with a forward-thinking industrial leader, Orion Cordage offers unparalleled opportunities to shape the future of material engineering. In support of their continuous improvement and growth, they are looking to add a Director of Operations to their team.

Summary of the Role

As the Director of Operations, you will report directly to the President, playing a pivotal role in steering both strategic and operational excellence across Canadian and US facilities. Your leadership will ensure the seamless integration of functions, driving the efficient operation of the plants to consistently deliver superior products. You will oversee all activities within the 160,000 square foot Canadian facility and expand oversight to the 100,00 square foot Winslow plant within 12-18 months. Your strategic vision and operational acumen will be instrumental in enabling the President to focus on broader organizational growth and innovation.

Your first 6-9 months will be dedicated to building a deep understanding of the Deseronto facility. This period will involve a comprehensive analysis of workflow processes, systems, and practices, alongside engaging with the workforce to grasp manufacturing complexities. You will spearhead new system implementations and drive future-oriented decisions, ensuring alignment with overarching operational goals and quality standards. By immersing yourself in the plant's culture and operations, you will lay the groundwork for impactful leadership and effective management strategies.

Working closely with Human Resources, you will lead the charge in optimizing talent both internally and externally to boost production capacity. Central to your role will be fostering a culture of collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement. By mentoring shift supervisors and equipping them with essential tools and resources, you will empower them to lead effectively. This approach will enable impactful decision-making that drives key performance indicators, while nurturing an environment where proactive solutions are both encouraged and celebrated.

While you start to learn the ins and outs of the role, you will also take on responsibilities in purchasing, including commodity buying. Your oversight will involve developing and implementing strategies to optimize inventory management and cost efficiency. Ensuring that procurement practices align with operational goals will be crucial in maintaining high-quality standards and supporting the plant's success. Your strategic approach to procurement will contribute to cost-effective operations and seamless supply chain management, further enhancing the plant's capabilities.

Through quarterly visits to the US plant, you will align operational strategies and collaborate closely with their Plant Manager and President. Your leadership will ensure the successful integration of acquired plants, R&D, and new technologies. By observing different ways of working, you will bring innovative solutions to both facilities, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Ultimately, your goal is to build the plant into a place that operates smoothly under your leadership, even in your absence. Your role as Director of Operations will be vital in achieving the overarching goals of Orion Cordage and positioning the company for future growth and success.

Is this for you?

You have a strong educational foundation, coupled with relevant experience as a seasoned Manager or Director in the manufacturing sector. While you may not have specific industry experience, you have worked within a small to medium-sized manufacturing environment, ideally within the automotive or processing industry. Along with working under rigid safety and quality practices, you also bring an open mind and a forward-thinking approach. Given the unique nature of this opportunity, the ability to adapt and learn quickly is paramount. You are familiar with standards such as ISO 9001 and have a practical understanding of manufacturing best practices.

You have a proven track record of managing the full scope of the P&L, demonstrating a strong business acumen and the ability to view operations from a holistic business perspective. Multitasking is in part of your nature, and you are comfortable operating in an environment where daily challenges are the norm. As the Director of Operations, you will leverage your proven track record of identifying and implementing improvements in areas such as KPI tracking and training program development.

Your success in this role demands a unique blend of strategic and operational capabilities. Your solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to think strategically is critical as you navigate the daily challenges of managing the Deseronto plant. You are comfortable being both a visionary leader, and someone who can roll up their sleeves and get into the details. You have refined strong organizational skills, a self-driven nature, intellectual curiosity, and a desire for continuous learning. In this role, you have the opportunity to engage in your entrepreneurial spirit as you thrive in an organization where wearing multiple hats is the norm and are comfortable overseeing projects from inception to completion.