Director of Operations Position Available In Shelby, Tennessee

Director of Operations Kele Companies – 2.0

Bartlett, TN Job Details Estimated:

$139K – $168K a year 18 hours ago Qualifications Operations management Engineering ERP systems Warehouse management system Master’s degree Assembly Bachelor’s degree Production planning Business Administration Manufacturing Senior level Leadership Lean manufacturing Senior leadership 10 years Full Job Description Founded at the birth of the building automation industry in 1983 as Kele & Associates (now Kele Companies), we became the first building automation distributor to offer an all-inclusive platform. Over the next 40 years, Kele Companies has grown into a world class Building Automation Systems distributor with its headquarters remaining strategically located in Memphis, TN and branch locations positioned in 7 states throughout the U.S. Every member of the Kele Companies team plays a key role in delivering on our promise of: “We Make It Easy.” We are currently hiring for the role of Director of Operations. SUMMARY – The Director of Operations is responsible for leading the day-to-day and long-term operations of the electrical panel assembly, Kele Precision Manufacturing (KPM) and distribution facility. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence across manufacturing and distribution functions while driving continuous improvement, cost control, and team development. The ideal candidate brings proven leadership in an assembly-based manufacturing environment with a strong background in distribution center operations and a strategic mindset.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Optimization Develop and execute long-term operational strategies aligned with company goals and market demands. Partner with executive leadership to drive operational innovation and scalability. Identify opportunities for growth, automation, and improvement across the value stream.

Manufacturing / Assembly

Operations Oversee all aspects of electrical panel assembly, ensuring compliance with engineering standards, safety, and quality requirements. Implement lean manufacturing practices and production planning systems to maximize throughput and minimize waste. Plan and execute the launch of new manufactured products, employing structured project management techniques to manage timelines, resources, and deliverables. Distribution Center Operations Manage receiving, inventory control, order fulfillment, and outbound logistics functions to ensure on-time and accurate delivery. Optimize warehouse layout, material handling, and shipping practices to enhance efficiency and reduce cycle times. Ensure all inventory and shipping systems are accurate and compliant with internal and external requirements. Develop and implement warehouse management and transportation strategies to improve fulfillment speed and accuracy. Develop and maintain relationships with freight carriers including service and rate negotiations and delivery and pickup schedules. Operational Efficiency & Cost Management Develop, monitor and drive key performance indicators (KPIs) for productivity, quality, safety, and cost. Lead cost-reduction initiatives through improved processes, vendor negotiation, and workforce optimization. Delivers progress and production reports to executive team members as requested. Manage departmental budgets, including labor, capital expenditures, and materials. Supplier & Vendor Management Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, negotiate contracts and ensure supplier performance meets business needs. Anticipate and mitigate supply chain risks: Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions and ensure business continuity. Optimize sourcing strategies to improve cost, quality, and reliability of raw materials and finished goods. Inventory & Demand Planning Responsible for inventory control processes to ensure all physical locations and inventory counts are correct, stocking locations are up-to-date and properly labeled, and cycle count processes are followed. Reduce excess and obsolete inventory while ensuring product availability to meet customer demand. Utilize data analytics to improve forecasting accuracy and supply chain visibility. Leadership & Team Development Build and lead a high-performing team of managers, supervisors, technicians, and support staff across assembly and distribution operations. Establish a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and employee engagement. Provide coaching, performance evaluations, and training to support professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred) and / or 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in Operations Management. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing or assembly operations, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role. Proven experience managing both production and distribution center operations. Strong background in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar operational excellence methodologies Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver measurable improvements in efficiency and cost. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with electrical or electromechanical assembly operations. Familiarity with ERP and WMS systems. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-driven environment.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and / or 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations management; Master’s degree preferred.