Lead the Future of Manufacturing Operations Across Three Growing Facilities Reliance Fluid Technologies is looking for a proven operations leader who thrives on building high-performing teams, improving operational performance, and driving meaningful business results.
This is not a role for someone who wants to maintain the status quo.
As our Director of Operations, you'll have the opportunity to shape strategy, influence company growth, and make a lasting impact across our manufacturing, blending, packaging, warehousing, and distribution operations. Reporting directly to the President, you'll lead a multi-site operation spanning Milan, MI, Niagara Falls, NY, and Buffalo, NY, with responsibility for delivering safe, efficient, customer-focused operations that support both current and future growth.
If you're energized by leading change, developing leaders, improving processes, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, we want to hear from you.
Why This Opportunity? At Reliance Fluid Technologies, operations is at the center of everything we do. This role offers a unique combination of strategic leadership and operational influence.
You'llLead operations across multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities
Partner directly with executive leadership on business strategy and growth initiatives
Shape operational culture, performance standards, and leadership development
Drive Lean and continuous improvement initiatives that deliver measurable results
Build the next generation of operational leaders through coaching and mentorship
Influence capital investments, productivity improvements, and long-term operational strategy
What You'll Be Responsible For:
As Director of Operations, you will: Provide leadership for manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and distribution operations across multiple locations
Drive safety, quality, productivity, service, and cost performance throughout the organization
Establish accountability through KPI management and performance metrics
Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean principles, 6S, and structured problem-solving methodologies
Improve equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and asset utilization
Develop and mentor site leaders, managers, and supervisors
Manage operating budgets and capital investment plans
Collaborate cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Customer Success, and executive leadership teams
Ensure operational execution aligns with customer expectations and company growth objectives
What We’re Looking For:
You may be the ideal candidate if you have: Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field (required)
12+ years of progressive manufacturing or operations leadership experience (required)
Significant experience leading managers and supervisors in industrial or manufacturing environments
Demonstrated success leading multi-site operations
Strong expertise in KPI management, operational excellence, budgeting, and capital planning
Experience driving organizational change and continuous improvement initiatives
Strong business acumen with an ability to make data-driven decisions
Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification (preferred)
Industry Experience Preferred Experience in one or more of the following environments is highly desirable: Specialty chemicals
Lubricants
Blending and packaging operations
Bulk liquid handling
Process manufacturing
The Leader We’re Seeking Beyond experience, we’re looking for someone who: Leads with integrity and accountability
Builds engaged, high-performing teams
Creates a culture of safety and operational excellence
Balances strategic thinking with hands-on execution
Is comfortable making tough decisions and driving change
Inspires others through coaching, development, and leadership
Ready to Build What’s Next? If you’ve successfully led manufacturing operations, developed strong teams, and delivered measurable business results, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of a growing organization.
Eligible for annual bonus based on company and individual performance
Paid weekly every Thursday
401(k) with employer match - no waiting period
Company-paid STD, LTD, and life insurance
Supportive, family-owned culture with company-sponsored events and outings
Work-Life Balance Matters HereWe understand that real life exists outside of work. Appointments, family responsibilities, and flexibility matter. We believe strong performance and work-life balance can coexist, and we strive to create an environment that supports both.
Our Culture:
We’re a family-owned organization that believes employees should be treated like people, not numbers.
Our leadership team is approachable, collaborative, and accessible. Employees have the opportunity to make a real impact on the business while working alongside teams that value communication, accountability, integrity, and innovation.
Our CORE values guide how we operate every day: Care & Communication– We support one another and communicate openly and respectfully
Ownership & Accountability– We take responsibility for our work and follow through
Responsibility & Integrity– We do what’s right and hold ourselves to a high standard
Entrepreneurship & Innovation– We continuously look for better ways to improve and grow
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know so appropriate assistance can be provided.
