Sr. Operations Manager

Location: Huntsville, AL Opportunity This position effectively plans and directs the production activities of all manufacturing operations at the Huntsville plant. Communicate and recommend modifications to established objectives, policies and procedures; and keep the plant management staff informed of regular reports reflecting such things as production results, availability of labor, and changes in operating requirements. Drive continuous improvement in production and labor utilization to ensure that quality products are manufactured in the most cost-effective way to meet the demands of our customers in a timely manner. Duties are performed in a manner consistent with the achievement of plant safety, quality, delivery, and cost metrics. Specific Responsibilities Lead the development of operating strategies for Huntsville that address the progression toward a “world-class” operation. Direct manufacturing operations to ensure safety of associates through enforcement of safety rules and procedures. Support and maintain programs that are designed to continuously improve the safety record of the Huntsville plant and that ensure compliance with all governmental standards. Ensure that proper training and communication is used to stress to every associate the importance of working safely. Ensure production of products which meet or exceed established quality standards. Participate in audits of finished units to assess and improve the quality of outgoing products. Ensure all associates are trained and have a thorough understanding of the established quality standards. Respond, when appropriate, to reported field quality problems. Drive 100% schedule adherence in all manufacturing areas. Drive continuous improvement by leading company efforts to improve plant efficiency, continually improving the use of labor and materials through the implementation of the Kohler Operating System (KOS) principles. Identify associate training needs, facilitate and actively participate appropriate Six Sigma, Lean and Kaizen principle tools and projects. Drive standardized work implementation and adherence in all areas. Partner with and/or direct engineering to recommend design enhancements and improvements to the manufacturing processes. Work with R D personnel to set up and execute trials aimed at process improvements. Ensure all cost centers meet or exceed their budget. Provide leadership, direction, and support to manufacturing staff to ensure understanding and competence to achieve plant goals. Plan and implement adjustments to staffing levels in all areas to maintain labor efficiency goals and meet goals for schedule adherence. Support labor relations by instructing and counseling subordinates in contract interpretation, grievance handling, and effective labor relations. Manage all Step II grievances within manufacturing. Work with other plant and division personnel to resolve grievances. Identify training opportunities (formal, coaching, and on the job) to enhance productivity, job performance, personal growth and ultimately to improve the effectiveness of the plant. Evaluate training effectiveness in relation to knowledge gained, quality feedback, warranty rating, and customer satisfaction