The Impact You'll Make

The Director Operations continuously develops the Ames Operations Organization and safely manages Assembly, Machining, Paint & Pack, and Maintenance resources in Ames Iowa to ensure the timely delivery of quality parts that meet or exceed customer expectations. 

What You’ll Be Doing

Job Responsibilities
•    Leading daily Ames Operations while delivering exceptional results with a focus on productivity in multiple departments 
•    Maintains oversight of multiple areas of responsibility by closely coordinating with area managers within Assembly, Machining, Paint & Pack, Maintenance Operations 
•    Accountable for defining resource needs and works within budget and staffing parameters to accomplish objectives for multiple areas of responsibility
•    Drives operational excellence based on experience of utilizing the latest manufacturing technology and lean tools
•    Builds and supports customer mentality.  Responds with commitment and sensitivity toward satisfying the needs of internal and external customers. Promotes SQDC (safety, quality, delivery, cost) and continuous improvement philosophies.
•    Drives engagement and accountability to develop a highly effective and passionate team/organization
•    Develop organizational competencies for continued growth within the Ames Operations team and the business
•    Acts as a change agent with strong credibility and influence in the organization
•    Works effectively with cross-functional teams and promotes an environment of cooperation
•    Grow safety awareness within Operations, striving for best-in-class EHS culture

What We're Looking For

Job Criteria:

• Ability to lead and develop a vision and strategy for the business areas including gaining alignment and support.
• Global mindset and excellent communication skills to efficiently communicate across all levels in the organization.
• Competent in Advanced Product Quality Planning and Production Part Approval Process

• Excellent management skills, including communication, change management, training, coaching, team facilitation and analytical problem-solving
• Working knowledge of appropriate manufacturing, operations and product development practices

Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Strong understanding of Continuous Improvement methods: Kaizen, LEAN principles, Six Sigma tools and methodologies, or other continuous improvement methods to support lean processes.
• Experience managing high level business financials

• Fluent English

• Experience in root cause problem solving

Preferred Experience:

• 5+ years’ experience leading leaders

• Automotive manufacturing experience
• Working knowledge of appropriate manufacturing, operations, and product development practices
• Deep experience within End-to-End Supply Chain Management (SCM) working closely with procurement, global SCM and customers

• Competent in Advanced Product Quality Planning and Production Part Approval

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, and walk; may use hands or fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to walk, talk, and hear.. Must be physically able to wear appropriate PPE

This position description is intended to be a tool to describe the primary purpose of the job and the key duties and responsibilities. The position description may not be inclusive of all duties and job assignments. Job duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, and/or revised at the discretion of management. This is a description of the current position and does not address the potential for accommodation, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

What You'll Get from Us

At Danfoss, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and a broader perspective in decision-making. When you consider this job posting, do you feel like your profile is not a perfect match? Numerous studies have found that women and people of color are more likely to apply only when they meet all requirements listed in the job posting. Even if you do not check all the boxes, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are curious to find out how you can bring new insights to the role or to Danfoss as an organization.

We are excited to offer you the following benefits with your employment:
Bonus system
Paid vacation
Retirement plan
Flexible working hours
Personal insurance
Opportunity to join Employee Resource Groups
State of the art virtual work environment
Employee Referral Program

Ready to Make a Difference?

If this role excites you, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to start the conversation and learn more about where your career can go with us.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category.