Work location:
- This position requires on-site presence in Ontario, CA, must report to the office every business day.
Job SummaryThe Focus Factory Manager is responsible for leading end-to-end operations within a dedicated production value stream, with a strong emphasis on safety, customer satisfaction, financial performance, and operational efficiency. This role requires a data-driven leader who can effectively communicate and influence at all levels of the organization while fostering a culture of accountability, process sustainability, and continuous improvement.
The Focus Factory Manager will leverage technology and cross-functional collaboration to optimize performance across the value chain, working closely with key stakeholders including suppliers, logistics, engineering, and demand planning. Maintaining strong engagement with frontline and unionized employees is critical to ensuring alignment, productivity, and a high-performance culture.
The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's degree or work experience equivalent, preferably in Supply Chain Management, Finance, Engineering, or Lean Manufacturing, and brings significant experience in manufacturing or operations leadership within a fast-paced environment.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities (Essential Functions)Safety & Compliance Leadership
- Champion a world-class safety culture by ensuring compliance with regulatory and company safety standards. Lead safety initiatives, audits, risk assessments, corrective actions, and root cause analysis (5 Whys, RCCM). Drive proactive risk mitigation and employee accountability for workplace safety.
Customer & End-User Experience
- Ensure operational excellence that meets or exceeds customer expectations through quality, accuracy, service, and delivery performance. Resolve customer concerns cross-functionally and oversee inventory accuracy, physical inventories, and cycle count programs.
Financial & Business Performance
- Own value stream financial performance, including budget management, cost control, productivity initiatives, and cost reduction while maintaining safety, quality, and service standards. Analyze operational and financial metrics and provide reporting to support strategic decisions.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Lead Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, efficiency, and throughput. Use operational data to identify trends, eliminate waste, improve processes, implement standard work, visual management, and operational discipline. Drive improvements across inbound logistics, production, warehousing, outbound operations, reverse logistics, and automation.
Leadership & Talent Development
- Build, develop, and lead high-performing teams. Coach and mentor leaders and frontline employees, conduct performance evaluations, succession planning, and talent development. Foster a positive, inclusive culture while partnering effectively with union and non-union employees.
Technology & Data-Driven Decision Making
- Use operational systems, analytics, reporting tools, and KPIs to drive business performance and continuous improvement. Develop executive-level presentations and business reviews. Leverage technology to improve visibility, efficiency, and decision-making across the value stream.
Skills and Minimum Experience Required- Bachelor's degree (preferably in Supply Chain Management, Finance, or Lean Principles)
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in warehouse operations
- Proven track record in operations leadership, including safety, financial performance, and process improvements
- Proven experience overseeing container movements from port operations, working closely with drayage companies and coordinating with overseas suppliers.
- Strong people leadership skills with an emphasis on engagement, team development, and performance management
- Experience working in a unionized manufacturing environment preferred, with demonstrated ability to interpret collective bargaining agreements and participate in labor contract negotiations.
- Intermediate computer skills, including proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present data-driven insights effectively
- Experience using WMS and ERP such as Manhattan, Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
- Experience implementing technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency
- Results-driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Flexibility to support multiple shifts - Support Overtime - Weekend Strategies when needed
Travel Requirements0-25%
