Director of Operations

We're Not Just in the Packaging Business-We're in the "Wow" Business

Pregis is Hiring!

Why Join Pregis?

Pregis is in the packaging business to protect what matters. We are committed to providing our customers and employees sustainable growth through purpose-driven innovation and customer-centric packaging solutions. If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is innovative, customer focused, high integrity, believes in strong teamwork and collaboration, Pregis is the company for you. Check out the Pregis Purpose to learn how sustainability and social responsibility is at the very core of our company DNA.

Job Title: Director of Operations

General Scope of Job

We are seeking a high-impact Director of Operations to lead operational excellence and plant performance transformation across our Extrusion, Converting, and Press facilities in Sussex, WI & Elkhorn, WI. This role is focused on driving a plant turnaround initiative-rapidly identifying inefficiencies, implementing corrective actions, and building a culture of sustainable improvement and accountability.

The Director of Operations will be responsible for improving operational results across all facets of the business by identifying process improvement opportunities, executing data-driven solutions, and fostering a high-performing, lean, and engaged workforce. This is a critical leadership role for a hands-on, results-oriented leader with experience leading turnarounds, embedding Lean culture, and delivering measurable business results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the operational turnaround of both manufacturing sites, instilling process discipline, performance rigor, and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Provide strategic and tactical leadership in all aspects of operations including production, maintenance, quality, safety, logistics, and planning.
• Partner closely with greater Pregis organization collaborating and utilizing resources such as the central business operations group and other available resources to enhance business operations standards.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to reduce waste, improve flow, and increase plant efficiency and responsiveness.
• Conduct thorough performance assessments and gap analyses; establish KPIs and lead initiatives that improve OEE, reduce scrap, minimize downtime, and enhance delivery performance.
• Build a scalable and data-driven operational model supported by analytics, business cases, and cost-benefit justifications.
• Develop and implement performance metrics and dashboards to support real-time decision-making.
• Lead, develop, and mentor plant leadership teams, driving ownership and accountability at every level.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams-including Engineering, Supply Chain, Sales, and Finance-to ensure alignment of operational goals with broader business objectives.
• Support new technology adoption, capital investments, and equipment upgrades to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
• Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and documentation for standard work and best practices.
• Promote a culture of safety and compliance, ensuring adherence to OSHA and internal safety standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field. MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive operations leadership experience in manufacturing, with direct experience in extrusion and converting strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success leading a plant turnaround or operational transformation-must show measurable improvement in KPIs.
• Deep understanding and application of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles.
• Proven experience overseeing multi-site operations, preferably in a fast-paced, custom or high-mix environment.
• Strong track record of leading cross-functional teams through cultural and organizational change.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking with the ability to execute at a tactical level.
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills at all organizational levels.
• Ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities and deliver results under pressure.
• Leadership experience in mentoring, coaching, and developing teams.
• High level of business acumen and financial literacy.

Travel Requirements

Minimum travel required outside of WI

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Diversity and Inclusion

We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion

We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements.

Visit us at www.pregis.com for more information about Pregis LLC.