Director, Manufacturing Supply Chain - Fairfield, New Jersey

To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below. A leading textile manufacturing company is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Manufacturing to join its Supply Chain Team. This critical leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, product quality, and efficiency across domestic and international manufacturing operations. The Director will oversee daily production, implement lean manufacturing practices, and foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Supply Chain and is based on-site at the Fairfield, NJ headquarters, five days per week. Key Responsibilities Leadership Champion the company's mission, vision, and values through daily leadership. Ensure high-quality manufacturing standards that support timely and accurate product delivery. Oversee the U.S.-based manufacturing facility, focusing on team output and lead time reduction. Apply lean principles to enhance operational efficiency and promote continuous improvement. Enforce safety procedures, certifications, and training compliance. Support production continuity through preventive measures and contingency planning. Lead hiring, onboarding, and performance management of production staff. Project Management Manage manufacturing projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timelines and quality standards. Track milestones and key deliverables to maintain project schedules. Collaborate with leadership and team leads to build and maintain project plans. Communicate project progress and coordinate updates with stakeholders. Implement process workflows to support efficiency, quality, and safety. Monitor production schedules and resolve conflicts through cross-functional coordination. Track performance metrics and compile reports for internal teams. Strategic Management Implement lean manufacturing practices and support problem-solving on the production floor. Review workflows and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and product quality. Participate in cost control initiatives and monitor production efficiency gains. Provide input on equipment performance and communicate upgrade needs. Align staff deployment with production goals and resource availability. Analyze production data to identify opportunities for waste reduction and productivity gains. Address operational issues and escalate systemic challenges. Reinforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with workplace standards. Track machinery maintenance and support upgrade planning. Align facility-level production plans with broader business objectives. Monitor industry best practices and recommend operational enhancements. Overseas Manufacturing Track performance and cost metrics at overseas manufacturing partners. Recommend efficiency improvements and align overseas operations with growth goals. Report production trends and findings to leadership. Implement systems to support consistency and cost efficiency. Coordinate logistics and communication with overseas vendors. Escalate issues related to quality, delays, or cost discrepancies. Qualifications Based in New Jersey. Bachelor's degree in engineering or related discipline. 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment. Six Sigma certification preferred. Strong understanding of lean tools and continuous improvement methodologies. Experience training teams on manufacturing tools, standards, and regulations. Willingness to travel internationally 2-4 times per year. Proven leadership skills and experience managing multiple locations. Background in textiles preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Strong project management and deadline-driven execution. Understanding of budgets and compensation planning. Excellent presentation and communication skills. Ability to hire, train, and manage teams. Hands-on, proactive approach with a "can-do" attitude. Collaborative mindset and team-oriented leadership.