Job Details

The Operations Director is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operational activities of Jacobi Carbons Americas and ensuring the strategic objectives of the company are met efficiently and effectively. This role will require a hands-on leader who can enhance productivity, manage costs, and drive continuous improvement within the organization. This position is also responsible for overseeing the quality management system, laboratory operations, and compliance with all EHS regulations – both internal and external. This position is located in Columbus, Ohio, and reports directly to the Jacobi Carbons Americas President.

Essential Accountabilities:

• Lead and manage all aspects of the Columbus operations, including production, quality, lab, safety, environmental, and regulatory/compliance management to ensure alignment with company goals and customer expectations
• Develop and execute operations strategies to optimize plant performance, improve productivity, and reduce costs while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Design, implement, and continuously improve workflows, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and guidelines to ensure consistency and quality in team outputs.
• Foster a strong safety culture, prioritizing employee well-being and environmental responsibility in all site activities.
• Lead and support safety programs, conducting regular safety audits and risk assessments to minimize hazards and incidents.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement solutions to enhance productivity and reduce waste. Foster a culture of continuous improvement by implementing Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, and/or other process improvement methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations, as well as industry standards.
• Oversee and maintain the ISO Quality Management System ensuring compliance with ISO standards, and corporate quality standards, while using ISO as a tool to drive continuous improvements.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain and Sales to ensure timely availability of raw materials and on-time delivery to the customers.
• Optimize inventory management practices to balance production needs with cost-effective inventory levels.
• Manage site assets, including production equipment and facility infrastructure to ensure operational reliability and longevity.
• Oversee maintenance schedules and equipment upgrades, leading the maintenance team to minimize downtime and improve operational efficiency
• Identify opportunities for technology upgrades and capital investments to enhance productivity and operational capabilities.
• Manage budgets, forecast operational costs, and control expenses to ensure profitability.
• Analyze financial reports and KPIs to drive decision-making, improve cost efficiency, and meet revenue & profit targets.
• Lead and mentor a team of managers and supervisors, creating an environment focused on accountability, collaboration, growth, and performance.
• Establish clear performance expectations and conduct regular performance evaluations, providing coaching and development opportunities for the team.
• Ensure all staffing, training, and development plans are created and maintained for a skilled and motivated team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, etc.) to align operations with organizational goals and customer requirements.

Previous Work & Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, operations management, engineering, or related field required.
• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in an operations management role, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role, preferably within a company of similar size. Experience leading quality, lab, HES, and regulatory compliance is preferred.
• Knowledge of the chemical process industry is preferred
• Must have the ability to make recommendations to effectively resolve problems or issues, by using judgment that is consistent with standards, practices, policies, procedures, regulations, or government law.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial forecasting, and cost management in an operational setting.
• Proven track record of implementing Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, ISO, or other process optimization methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, drive accountability, and develop talent.
• Action-oriented mentality who is able and willing to challenge the status quo.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and overall computer skills.
• Experience working in ERP systems, preferably Oracle NetSuite.

Benefits Highlights:

• Generous PTO policy
• Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Voluntary life insurance
• Short-Term/ Long-Term Disability
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave

Jacobi Carbons, Inc. is the world's largest manufacturer of coconut-based activated carbon that delivers carbon activation and reactivation manufacturing for a wide range of industries and applications. Jacobi Carbons, Inc. is a part of Jacobi AB, a proud member of the Osaka Gas Chemicals Group.

Jacobi Carbons is an EOE/M/F/Disabled/Veterans employer.