Operations Manager

Operations Manager – Laredo, TX

On-site | Cross-Border Manufacturing Operations

The Operations Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing processes, and ensuring the smooth functioning of our production and manufacturing operations. This role directly impacts productivity, quality, and overall efficiency across our U.S. and Mexico facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop and execute long-term operational strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Support leadership in establishing scalable processes and continuous improvement initiatives.

Day-to-Day Operations Oversight

• Monitor daily operations within the Mexico Production Plant.
• Track and report performance metrics, recommending actionable improvements.
• Ensure production issues are identified and resolved promptly.
• Partner closely with the Mexico Plant Manager to enhance manufacturing processes.

Inventory Management & Budget Adherence

• Oversee inventory management practices and implement improvements as needed.
• Track raw materials and finished goods to maintain accurate inventory levels.
• Determine correct inventory levels based on business plans and production goals.
• Order raw materials and manage inventory efficiently.
• Coordinate with procurement and logistics teams to maintain optimal stock levels.
• Work closely with accounting and finance to ensure adherence to budget constraints.

Process Optimization

• Identify opportunities to enhance operational policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Propose and implement process improvements to boost efficiency and reduce waste.
• Participate in lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Track and report key business KPIs.

Communication & Cross-Functional Coordination

• Communicate performance metrics to relevant department managers.
• Collaborate with employees across all levels, including the executive operations team.
• Maintain effective communication with customers and suppliers, resolving issues promptly.

Quality Control

• Partner with the Quality Manager to implement company-wide quality control protocols.
• Ensure adherence to established standards across key business departments.
• Work with Quality and Production teams to address issues quickly and effectively.

Operational Planning & Reporting

• Assist the Plant Manager and Production Planner with scheduling and coordination.
• Oversee inventory management practices and make necessary adjustments.
• Generate reports on production output, downtime, and efficiency.
• Stay informed on market trends and industry forecasts.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in operations management, Engineering, or related field required.
• Master's degree in business administration preferred.

Experience

• Strong manufacturing and industrial leadership experience.
• Experience in automotive, EV, aluminum, magnesium, or similar light-metal manufacturing industries.
• Background leading multiple departments and managers.
• Experience with ERP systems is highly preferred.
• Spanish-speaking ability is a strong advantage given cross-border operations.
• Ability to travel internationally if needed. While it has never occurred, there is a possibility of one-week training in China in the future (this could happen but is not guaranteed)
• Current headcount: Approximately 150 employees, with growth projected to reach around 200.
• Ability to travel is required.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Natural coordinator with strong big-picture thinking and detail orientation.
• Excellent communication skills across all levels of the organization.
• APICS certification a plus.
• Spanish proficiency a plus.
• Understanding of ERP systems required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: Approximately $ 120,000- $ 180,000
• Annual Bonus: 10–20%
• Profit Sharing: 7% of annual salary
• Medical Benefits: Company currently pays 100% of the employee-only premium (although only 90% is required).
• 401(k): 4% company match
• Paid Time Off:
• 11 company holidays plus 1 floating holiday
• 10 sick days
• 2 weeks of PTO