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.