Winner of the “Best Overall Business of the Year” in 2021 at the Limerick Chamber Awards. Croom Medical is an industry leader utilising high-tech, high-growth, cutting-edge medical device manufacturing technology, working with the largest multinational Clients in the Medical Device arena, in particular Orthopaedic Implants.The family-owned second-generation precision engineering company is FDA registered with a commitment to innovation in manufacturing practices. We are continuing to expand our talented workforce & our manufacturing facility in Croom, Co. Limerick. Be part of a company with an innovative R&D hub and technologies, plus a unique thriving team. We are interested in hard-working, committed talent. We have the drive to scale and to help you develop your own career path. If you seek an entrepreneurial, flexible, and team-oriented culture, you could be who we are looking for!Job OverviewThe Operations Director at Croom Medical is a senior leadership role responsible for scaling and optimising all production operations in line with the company’s rapid growth. This position ensures that manufacturing capacity keeps pace with increasing demand while maintaining strict quality standards and operational efficiency. The Operations Director will focus on production scalability, process efficiency, quality alignment, supply chain management, and workforce leadership. As a critical member of the leadership team, this role supports Croom Medical’s operational expansion by driving excellence in day-to-day production and long-term strategic planning.Key ResponsibilitiesManufacturing Oversight: Oversee all manufacturing operations and production lines, ensuring production targets and delivery schedules are met or exceeded without compromising quality. Monitor daily output and implement adjustments to meet volume and timing requirements.Quality Alignment: Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to align production processes with high-quality standards and regulatory requirements. Ensure that all manufacturing activities comply with industry regulations and client expectations (e.g. maintaining ISO 13485 or FDA compliance in production practices). Foster a culture of quality and accountability on the factory floor.Supply Chain & Procurement: Manage end-to-end supply chain integration, including procurement of raw materials and components. Optimize inventory levels and vendor management to ensure materials are available when needed and at the best value. Implement strategies for efficient procurement and logistics, minimizing lead times while controlling costs.Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the senior leadership team to develop and execute long-term operational strategies. Contribute to capacity planning, capital investment decisions (such as new equipment or facility expansions), and introduction of advanced manufacturing technologies. Translate high-level company goals into actionable operational plans and drive their implementation.Required Skills & ExperienceExtensive Operations Leadership: 10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations leadership, with a track record of managing production teams and meeting performance KPIs. (Experience in medical device or other highly regulated manufacturing industries is strongly preferred but not strictly required.)High-Precision Manufacturing Background: Proven experience overseeing high-precision manufacturing environments where tight tolerances and exacting standards are the norm (for example, aerospace, automotive, or orthopaedic/medical device components manufacturing).Hands-On Leadership: A hands-on leadership style is essential. The ideal candidate isn’t afraid to spend time on the shop floor and get involved in the details. Preferably, the candidate has a background in toolmaking, machining, or another trade, giving them an in-depth understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment.Lean & Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated experience in driving process improvements using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies. Ability to analyse production workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement systematic improvements. (Formal Lean Six Sigma training or certification is a plus, but practical application and results are most important.)Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting: Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly troubleshoot operational issues. A knack for diagnosing the root causes of production delays or quality issues and implementing effective corrective actions. Able to make data-driven decisions to improve efficiency and productivity.Preferred QualificationsEducational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.Process Improvement Certifications: Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) or equivalent formal training in continuous improvement and quality management techniques.Digital Manufacturing & Systems: Experience working with modern digital manufacturing tools and systems. Proficiency with ERP/MES software for production planning and inventory management, as well as familiarity with CAD/CAM or other digital tools used in manufacturing, is advantageous. Comfort in leveraging data and analytics to drive operational decisions.Cultural Fit & Leadership StyleHands-On & Engaging: A leader who leads by example and is comfortable engaging directly with operators and technicians on the production floor. They should readily roll up their sleeves to understand challenges firsthand and drive improvements alongside the team.Practical & No-Nonsense: A practical, results-driven attitude with a no-nonsense leadership style. The ideal candidate is down-to-earth, humble, and focused on getting the job done efficiently. Someone who perhaps started their career on the shop floor (e.g., as a toolmaker or machinist) and worked their way up will likely fit well in this role, as they can relate to and earn respect from the team.Collaborative Team Player: Strong collaborator who works well with cross-functional teams. The Operations Director must maintain excellent communication and rapport with Quality Assurance, R&D, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and Senior Leadership to ensure alignment of goals. They should be able to break down silos and foster teamwork to achieve company objectives.Calm Under Pressure: Ability to manage pressure in a fast-paced and rapidly expanding organization. Maintains composure and provides stability for the team during high-pressure situations or periods of change. Keeps teams aligned and focused on priorities, even as demands increase or shift.Growth Mindset: Embraces the challenges that come with growth and sees them as opportunities to improve. Encourages a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and innovation among the operations staff. This person should not only cope with expansion but actively facilitate and drive it through proactive planning and team empowerment.
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