I'm conducting a retained search for a growing, family-owned plastics recycling company located south of Louisville, KY that is seeking a Director of Operations to help lead the organization through its next phase of growth. This highly visible leadership role will partner closely with ownership to improve operational performance, implement scalable processes, and support future growth initiatives. Key areas offocus include: Leading all plant operations, production, maintenance, logistics, quality, safety, and inventory management Developing predictive and preventative maintenance programs to improve equipment reliability and uptime Driving throughput, material yield, labor efficiency, and overall plant profitability Leading capital projects, equipment upgrades, automation initiatives, and plant expansion efforts Establishing KPIs, standardized operating procedures, and a culture of continuous improvement Improving forecasting, production planning, and operational predictability Building and developing high-performing operations and maintenance teams The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in plastics manufacturing, plastics recycling, post-industrial recycling, regrind, resin processing, compounding, or materials processing. Experience with shredding, grinding, extrusion, material handling, and plant leadership in a manufacturing environment is highly preferred. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact within an entrepreneurial organization where the right leader will help shape the future of the business, infrastructure, and operations strategy.
