Position Summary:

Walther Arms, Inc. is a fast-growing U.S. firearms manufacturer focused on delivering high-performance, reliable, and innovative products to the defense, sporting, and tactical markets. As we continue to scale, we're seeking a highly capable Director of Operations to lead our manufacturing and supply chain functions, drive operational excellence, and help build a world-class production environment.

The Director of Operations will be a key member of the leadership team, responsible for the strategic and day-to-day execution of manufacturing, supply chain, and operational activities. This individual will play a pivotal role in optimizing production processes, ensuring quality and compliance, managing vendor and logistics networks, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-paced, early-growth environment that requires deep operational experience, strong analytical thinking, and the ability to scale systems and teams efficiently.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Manufacturing Operations:

Oversee all manufacturing activities including safety, quality, on-time delivery and ensuring efficiency with a strong presence on the shop floor.

Develop and implement scalable production systems, capacity planning, and workforce strategies.

Manage, coach, and develop production supervisors and frontline team members to ensure high performance and alignment with company goals.

Collaborate with engineering, quality, supply chain, and product development teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely delivery of high-quality products.

Communicate goals, challenges, and progress clearly across teams.

Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices to support consistent production and compliance with industry regulations.

Participate in strategic planning for capacity expansion, capital investment, and workforce development.

Champion employee engagement and foster a positive work environment built on trust, respect, and continuous improvement.

Build a culture of root cause problem-solving with a sense of urgency and ownership.

Ensure compliance with ATF, OSHA, and other regulatory requirements specific to firearms manufacturing.

Supply Chain & Logistics:

Lead supply chain management team, including procurement, inventory, vendor relations, and material planning.

Drive optimization of supplier performance, negotiate contracts, and manage sourcing strategies.

Develop systems to ensure traceability, compliance, and risk mitigation across the supply chain.

Continuous Improvement:

Champion a culture of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement throughout operations.

Identify and eliminate process inefficiencies; implement KPIs and performance metrics.

Lead cost reduction initiatives without sacrificing quality or compliance.

Promote a culture of quality, accountability, and process ownership.

Strategic Leadership:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, product development, sales, finance) to align operational goals with company objectives.

Build and develop high-performing teams across operations, production, and supply chain.

Take a proactive role in strategy, planning and execution as part of our core team.

Qualifications & Requirements :

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field (Master's or MBA preferred).

10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, preferably in firearms or a precision manufacturing related industry.

5+ years in a senior leadership role with demonstrated success in scaling operations.

Deep knowledge of Lean, TPS, and other continuous improvement methodologies.

Proven experience in identifying and driving improvements in manufacturing.

Proven experience in supply chain optimization and vendor management.

Experience in machining is a plus.

Strong working knowledge of regulatory requirements specific to firearms manufacturing (ATF, ITAR, etc.) is a plus.

Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Experience implementing or managing ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing environment is a plus.

What We Offer:

Opportunity to help shape the future of a high-growth, mission-driven company.

Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

Benefits package including health, dental, vision, paid vacation, and more.

A collaborative, entrepreneurial team environment where innovation is encouraged.

As part of our hiring process, Walther requires all candidates to undergo a background check and drug screening. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of these screenings.