Head of Operations – Manufacturing in Sydney

Hunter Douglas is the world’s leading manufacturer of window coverings and a major manufacturer of architectural products. We are searching for candidates that are driven, intelligent, creative, and entrepreneurial. By offering challenging and accelerated opportunities for growth, we create a space for your career to thrive. In return for your expertise, we are committed to providing competitive and robust total compensation and benefit packages to ensure you feel valued.

Position Overview

Hunter Douglas is looking for an experienced manufacturing leader to take responsibility for our Sydney manufacturing, warehousing and distribution operations. This is one of the most important operational leadership roles in our Australian business. You will lead the teams responsible for turning customer demand into safe, efficient and reliable production and delivery outcomes. The role is based at our Rydalmere head office and manufacturing site. It requires a visible, hands-on leader who understands factory operations, knows how to improve performance and can bring people with them. Reporting to the Head of Manufacturing, APAC, you will lead manufacturing, warehousing and distribution while also overseeing national WHS management and the Rydalmere facilities. You will have between four and eight direct reports across production, warehousing, planning, operational excellence, safety and project improvement.

What you'll do

• Leading the day-to-day performance of manufacturing, warehousing and distribution.
• Setting production schedules based on customer demand, plant capacity and inventory levels.
• Managing operating costs, labour productivity, production output, quality and delivery performance.
• Identifying barriers in the manufacturing process and implementing practical improvements.
• Reviewing operational data, customer feedback, downtime, stock accuracy and labour costs to address the causes of poor performance.
• Leading quality management objectives, standards and improvement programs.
• Preparing and managing operational budgets and reports.
• Working with the Maintenance team to improve equipment reliability and preventative maintenance.
• Supporting new product testing and the introduction of new equipment, processes and manufacturing techniques.
• Leading the selection, development, coaching and performance of operational employees and leaders.
• Managing workplace change and working constructively with employees, suppliers, customers, unions and other stakeholders.

Safety leadership

You will hold overall responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of employees and contractors within the operation. This includes:

• Maintaining safe systems of work and safe working environments.
• Ensuring compliance with applicable work health and safety laws.
• Leading the Hunter Douglas WHS Management System and annual safety targets.
• Ensuring incidents are investigated and reported promptly.
• Making sure employees receive the required WHS training.
• Taking immediate action when unsafe conditions, behaviours or environmental hazards are identified.

Who you are

You will bring:

• At least 10 years of experience in manufacturing management or a comparable operational leadership role.
• Tertiary qualifications in a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge and practical application of 5S, Six Sigma or comparable continuous improvement methods.
• Sound technical understanding and mechanical aptitude.
• Experience managing production performance, budgets, labour costs, quality and operational KPIs.
• Strong financial and commercial judgement.
• A practical, hands-on and empathetic leadership style.
• The ability to lead change, solve problems and hold teams accountable.
• Clear communication and the ability to influence at different levels of an organisation.

What's in it for you

• Competitive salary package
• A company culture that prioritises internal development and professional growth
• Wellness programs and product discounts
• Onsite Parking, access to social club and birthday leave!

Important information before applying

This position is based on-site in Rydalmere five days per week. It is not a hybrid or remote position. Applicants must already have unrestricted and ongoing working rights in Australia. Hunter Douglas will not provide visa sponsorship for this position, either now or in the future. Please do not apply if you require employer sponsorship to work in Australia.