Discover Director of Operational Excellence opportunities on Ladders, where professionals can explore vetted jobs paying $100,000 or more. These senior leaders help organizations improve performance, streamline processes, and build a culture of continuous improvement. Roles span industries and may focus on enterprise transformation, quality, supply chain, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, or business operations.
A Director of Operational Excellence develops and leads initiatives that make an organization more effective, resilient, and customer-focused. Responsibilities often include identifying process gaps, setting improvement priorities, establishing performance measures, and partnering with executives and operational teams to deliver sustainable results. Depending on the employer, the role may oversee Lean, Six Sigma, change management, process design, or operational transformation programs.
Employers commonly look for strategic leadership, analytical problem-solving, change management, and the ability to influence across departments. Experience with continuous improvement methods such as Lean or Six Sigma, along with data analysis, project portfolio management, and KPI development, can be valuable. Many positions require a bachelor’s degree and substantial relevant experience; some prefer an advanced degree or professional certification.
Director of Operational Excellence roles are available in sectors where reliable, efficient processes are critical, including manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, logistics, retail, and technology. The scope varies: some directors lead improvement teams at a single site, while others shape operating models and transformation efforts across multiple business units or global organizations. Career paths may lead to vice president of operations, chief operating officer, or enterprise transformation leadership.
Use Ladders to explore vetted senior-level opportunities with salaries of $100,000 or more. Compare roles by industry, location, and scope, and look for positions that match your experience in operational strategy, process improvement, and executive leadership.
Director, Business Capabilities
$152K - $191K *
Transform business capabilities by leading strategy and delivery oversight for Digital Technology. Collaborate across functions to align priorities, drive measurable outcomes, and enhance organization...
Today
Director, Distribution Strategy
$172K - $203K *
Empower the distribution strategy by designing and managing rate content across channels, ensuring accurate delivery and partner trust. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to build scalable progra...
2 days ago
$182K - $198K *
Build and lead a robust Service Management Office to enhance IT operations, ensuring effective governance, accountability, and continuous improvement across a complex 24x7 environment, while fostering...
1 week ago
$145K - $160K *
Join a team that's redefining design operations by leading a high-performing department. You'll enhance processes, foster collaboration, and drive strategic initiatives to elevate client experiences a...
2 days ago
Director, Process & Operations Management, Medical and Scientific Affairs (MSA)
$150K - $258K *
Elevate operational excellence by leading cross-functional initiatives, driving strategic governance, and enhancing project delivery in Medical and Scientific Affairs. Collaborate with senior leaders...
1 week ago
Director, Process & Operations Management, Medical and Scientific Affairs (MSA)
$150K - $258K *
Elevate your career by leading strategic initiatives in Medical and Scientific Affairs. Drive portfolio governance, enhance operational excellence, and foster cross-functional collaboration to deliver...
1 week ago
Director, Process & Operations Management, Medical and Scientific Affairs (MSA)
$150K - $258K *
Champion operational excellence by leading cross-functional initiatives, driving strategic governance, and enhancing project delivery in Medical and Scientific Affairs. Collaborate with senior leaders...
1 week ago
Director, Process & Operations Management, Medical and Scientific Affairs (MSA)
$150K - $258K *
Lead and innovate in process and operations management within Medical and Scientific Affairs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive strategic portfolio governance, enhance operational excel...
1 week ago
Director, Process & Operations Management, Medical and Scientific Affairs (MSA)
$150K - $258K *
Shape the future of medical affairs by leading strategic portfolio management, enhancing operational excellence, and driving cross-functional collaboration to deliver impactful healthcare solutions...
1 week ago
Senior Director, Business Transformation & Operational Excellence
$150K - $180K *
Drive transformation by leading a high-impact team focused on process optimization, cost reduction, and operational excellence. Collaborate with leadership to implement AI tools and foster a culture o...
Yesterday
Continuous Improvement Manager
$88K - $105K *
Empower your career by leading continuous improvement initiatives to enhance processes, reduce waste, and drive quality within our manufacturing plant. Collaborate with teams to implement Lean and Six...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Director, Ops Support (Quality and Customer Care)
$140K - $150K *
Join us to lead strategic operations and enhance customer experience across the Last Mile network. Drive performance improvements, manage claims, and implement scalable solutions while collaborating w...
2 weeks ago
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence Leader
$95K - $115K *
Transform operational excellence by leading continuous improvement initiatives and enhancing productivity across distribution operations. Collaborate with teams to analyze processes, implement innovat...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Drive operational excellence in regional Fulfillment operations, enhancing client experience and compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and improve sc...
6 days ago
$88K - $105K *
Lead the charge in optimizing operational workflows and task management systems. Collaborate with STARCOM HQ to ensure timely responses and efficient task completion, enhancing organizational effectiv...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Elevate operational excellence by leading safety and productivity initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement, focusing on team growth and data-driven decision...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across multiple oncology clinics, enhancing patient throughput and staff efficiency. Lead teams in implementing standardized processes while supporting complia...
1 week ago
Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer / OPEX
$86K - $126K *
Grow your career with a pivotal role that drives continuous improvement in manufacturing processes, enhances efficiency, and supports operational excellence initiatives across the organization...
3 weeks ago
Program Manager, Manufacturing
$130K - $180K *
Lead the charge in enhancing operational efficiency and program management. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, ensuring alignment and execution on high-impact engineering...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in operational excellence within a dynamic healthcare environment, managing diverse teams and driving quality initiatives to enhance patient satisfaction and optimize performance throu...
1 week ago
Continuous Improvement Operational Excellence Specialist
$95K - $115K *
Lead the charge in driving operational excellence through Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, coaching cross-functional teams to enhance performance, safety, and quality while delivering measurable result...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $136K *
Optimize operational leadership and financial management for home health care centers, ensuring quality patient care, regulatory compliance, and staff development while driving business growth and per...
Today
Continuous Improvement Manager
$106K - $138K *
Drive the implementation of multi-site Operational Excellence initiatives, enhancing productivity and quality through metrics and Lean methodologies, while ensuring alignment with company objectives a...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$135K - $160K *
Lead the charge in engineering excellence by managing complex projects, mentoring teams, and driving innovative technology implementations. Ensure sustainable operations while aligning with business o...
Reposted 4 days ago
$95K - $115K *
Advance automation projects in a regulated medical device environment, ensuring timely delivery and compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance manufacturing efficiency and quality...
2 days ago
What does a Director of Operational Excellence do?
A Director of Operational Excellence leads initiatives to improve organizational performance, processes, quality, and efficiency. The role often includes setting improvement strategy, tracking KPIs, guiding transformation projects, and helping teams adopt sustainable ways of working.
What qualifications are commonly required for Director of Operational Excellence jobs?
Employers often seek a bachelor’s degree, extensive experience in operations or continuous improvement, and a record of leading cross-functional change. Lean or Six Sigma expertise, data analysis skills, and an advanced degree or relevant certification may be preferred.
How much do Director of Operational Excellence jobs pay?
Compensation varies by industry, location, company size, and role scope. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, including senior operational excellence opportunities.
Which industries hire Directors of Operational Excellence?
Manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, financial services, retail, technology, and other industries hire these leaders to improve processes, manage transformation, and strengthen operational performance.
What career paths can follow this role?
Experienced Directors of Operational Excellence may advance to vice president of operations, chief operating officer, enterprise transformation executive, or other senior leadership positions.