Director of Operational Excellence

Position Summary The 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 the Advanced 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 cost 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, Microsoft 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