Business Unit Director

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive business strategy that aligns with overall corporate objectives, ensuring growth, efficiency, and operational excellence.
• Take full ownership of the business unit’s Profit & Loss (P&L), driving revenue growth, optimizing costs, and ensuring profitability.
• Conduct market analysis to identify opportunities for expansion, innovation, and competitive advantage.
• Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring the achievement of production targets, adherence to quality standards, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize production lines.
• Ensure compliance with ISO9000 or other third-party certification systems, as well as adherence to all manufacturing obligations.
• Lead and mentor a diverse team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence. Provide coaching, performance management, and professional development opportunities to team members.
• Serve as the primary liaison for key customers, ensuring exceptional service, product quality, and on-time delivery.
• Partner with internal teams including finance, supply chain, engineering, and sales to streamline operations and drive cross-functional collaboration.
• Oversee manufacturing business transfers, ensuring seamless transitions and operational continuity.
• Utilize ERP systems to drive manufacturing efficiencies, inventory control, and production planning, with a deep understanding of manufacturing layout and its importance.
• Optimize manufacturing lines and foster a lean operational environment to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Possess a strategic mindset to assess both short-term and long-term operational needs, ensuring the right actions are taken at the right time.
• Build and develop a high-performing team capable of executing critical business initiatives with precision and efficiency.
• Adapt to and excel in a small manufacturing environment, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.
• Willingness and ability to travel for work as needed to support business operations, customer engagement, and strategic growth initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in custom manufacturing is a plus.
• Strong P&L management experience with a proven ability to scale operations and drive financial performance.
• Deep understanding of ERP systems and their impact on manufacturing efficiency and layout optimization.
• Experience with manufacturing line optimization and driving a lean operational environment.
• Expertise in ISO9000 systems or equivalent quality certifications and regulatory compliance.
• Proven track record of leading strategic initiatives and identifying growth opportunities in dynamic business settings.
• Experience in transferring a manufacturing business, ensuring a smooth transition with operational continuity.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and manage high-performing teams.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence key stakeholders.
• Comfortable working in a small manufacturing environment with hands-on problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel for work as required to meet operational and strategic objectives.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead a critical business unit within a growing and innovative manufacturing organization.
• Collaborative and high-performance work culture.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional growth and leadership development opportunities.

If you are a strategic, hands-on leader with a passion for operational excellence and business growth, Ashton North's client invites you to apply and become a key player in our organization’s success.