Director of Operational Excellence

Position SummaryThe Director of Operational Excellence is a strategic leader responsible for driving continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of innovation across Viant. This role leads the design, implementation, and oversight of operational strategies, leveraging digital transformation, data analytics, and best-in-class methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.) to achieve measurable business results. The Director partners with cross-functional teams and senior leadership to align operational initiatives with organizational goals, ensuring resilience, adaptability, and sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving business environment.This role leads the OpEx function in theAdvanced Metals Solutions (AMS) business unit and primarily works with machining, drawing, and turning processes. This is a remote position. Business Unit OpEx leaders within the Center of Excellence are expected to work autonomously, lead cross-functional teams, and influence the organization to consistently exceed operational efficiency targets through strategic leadership, collaboration, and expert problem-solving. Key Responsibilities• Drive and develop OpEx strategy and standardization across all sites within the business unit.• Work autonomously and lead cross-functional teams to identify and execute operational improvement initiatives across multiple sites. • Make strategic decisions to achieve defined metrics and operational targets, including a 12-month hopper of bolthires savings projects• Lead complex, strategic, and multiple workstream programs that span business units and functions. • Influence OpEx at all levels within the organization, driving adoption of best practices and continuous improvement. • Drive savings and operational efficiency through expert problem-solving and collaboration.• Build a strong pipeline of talent into operational roles, fostering development and succession planning. • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance, report progress to senior management, and adjust strategies as needed. • Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, fostering employee engagement and buy-in for improvement initiatives. • Design and deliver training programs to build organizational capability in operational excellence, including upskilling teams in digital tools and process improvement techniques.• Partner with stakeholders across departments (Operations, HR, IT, Finance, etc.) to ensure alignment and effective execution of operational strategies. • Ensure compliance and risk management by adhering to regulatory standards, industry best practices, and company policies. • Drive technology enablement by adopting new technologies (AI, automation, advanced analytics) to optimize workflows and support strategic decision-making. • Prepare and present detailed reports on the progress and impact of operational excellence initiatives, highlighting ROI and areas for further improvement.• Negotiate with external partners to secure tools and services that support operational excellence goals. Qualifications• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s or relevant certification preferred). • 8+ years of experience in operational excellence, process improvement, or operations leadership, preferably in a manufacturing or regulated environment. • Proven track record of leading large-scale transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.• Advanced knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt or Master Black Belt preferred), and other process improvement methodologies. • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills; proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics. • Experience with digital transformation, automation, and technology implementation in operational settings. • Exceptional communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills; strong active listening and interpretation abilities; proven capacity to influence and build alignment across all levels of the organization.• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, balance competing priorities, and deliver results in a matrixed environment. • Proficiency with operational software tools (ERP, PowerBI, Minitab, bolthires Office Suite, etc.). • Willingness and ability to travel as required (Approximately 20-30%)Core Competencies• Strategic vision and planning• Change leadership and resilience• Data-driven decision-making• Digital and technology fluency• Stakeholder engagement and collaboration• Results orientation and accountability• Root cause analysis / structured problem solving Apply tot his job