The Director of Operations supports the Badger mission as a results-driven and strategic leader of the manufacturing, supply chain, and quality systems for our growing portfolio of OTC topical products and cosmetics. This role is pivotal in ensuring end-to-end operational excellence across formulation, manufacturing, filling, packaging, warehousing, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will have significant leadership experience in FDA-regulated manufacturing environments and a passion for developing high-performing teams in a fast-paced, consumer-focused business.

Essential Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership and Department Management

Oversees all operational functions, including production, supply chain, procurement, quality assurance, and logistics, ensuring alignment with company growth goals and regulatory requirements (FDA, cGMP, ISO)
Drives operational strategy focused on continuous improvement, lean manufacturing principles, and supply chain optimization
Leads departmental change initiatives and drives adoption of company-wide changes within reporting teams
Conducts short-term and long-range capacity planning and cost-benefit analysis for systems, facility, and equipment enhancements
Partners with R&D and Quality teams to support new product introductions, scale-up of formulations, and technical transfer processes for effective transition to internal operations or third-party manufacturing
Oversees supply chain/inventory strategy in coordination with the Inventory Manager and Controller
Works with the Quality Manager and Operations Manager to ensure rigorous compliance with FDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), OTC drug monographs, and cosmetic labeling laws
Establishes and monitors KPIs across Operations and Quality to track output, cost control, waste reduction, labor efficiency, and quality performance
Oversee the sourcing, set-up, and performance evaluations of all third-party manufacturers
Directs capital planning, equipment procurement, and facility improvements to support capacity growth and efficiency
Owns departmental resource planning and budgeting
Ensure safe, ethical, and legally compliant work environments by promptly addressing or escalating safety or ethical concerns
Drives environmentally responsible operational practices in line with Badger's sustainability values
Anticipates and manages risks that could impact departmental or cross-functional operations

People Leadership Responsibilities

Oversees the Operations Manager, Inventory Manager, Sourcing & Purchasing Manager, and Quality Manager
Models company mission and principles through day-to-day actions and strategic decisions, setting a standard for ethical and purpose-driven leadership
Provides leadership, training, and guidance to managers and teams, cultivating a healthy, mission-aligned, and productive workplace culture
Leads performance management processes, including conducting check-ins for new team members, facilitating Alignment Building Process meetings, managing complex performance issues with HR support, and making exit decisions for departmental staff
Drives employee development and succession planning within reporting departments
Resolves complex conflicts and facilitates consensus among diverse stakeholders. Makes critical independent decisions and ensures alignment between conflicting parties
Facilitates interdepartmental and departmental meetings and develops effective communication strategies to align teams and support organizational goals. Represents departments in Strategy Team meetings and other company events
Balances multiple departmental and organizational priorities, effectively resolving competing needs between the business, departments, and individuals
Fosters inclusive team environments by actively seeking diverse perspectives during discussions and decision-making processes

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field (MBA or advanced technical degree preferred)
Minimum 10 years of experience in operations leadership, with at least 5 years in a regulated OTC and/or cosmetic manufacturing environment
Proven success managing full-scale production, including manufacturing, filling, and packaging of creams, gels, lotions, and liquids
Deep understanding of FDA regulatory requirements for OTC drugs and cosmetics
Strong working knowledge of cGMP, 21 CFR 210/211, OTC drug monographs, and ISO standards
Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives
Strong project management, budgetary, and analytical skills
Proficient in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Syspro, NetSuite, SAP) and production planning tools

Physical Requirements:

Employee should be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations

Minimum starting pay $110,000, commensurate on experience

Benefits

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
Short Term & Long Term Disability
Wellness Resources

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Director of Operations