Operations Director - Process Industry Business

• Strategic leadership opportunity within a fast-evolving organization
• Opportunity to play a key role in the company's growth and development.

About Our Client

The company is a leading player in the circular economy and products transformation sector, converting organic materials into value-added products for multiple industrial applications. Through continuous investments in operational excellence, sustainability, energy efficiency, and plant modernization, the organization continues to strengthen its leadership position across international markets.

Job Description

Reporting directly to the Country Manager and working closely with both local and international leadership teams, the Operations Director will have full responsibility for the company's industrial and operational activities across two production sites.
This is a strategic leadership position requiring a hands-on approach, strong change management capabilities, and the ability to drive performance in an industrial manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate operations across two manufacturing sites.
• Take full accountability for industrial performance and operational P&L.
• Direct Production, Maintenance, Engineering, and HSE functions.
• Lead and develop an operational organization of approximately 30 employees.
• Define, monitor, and improve operational, quality, and financial KPIs.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Manage industrial CAPEX plans and investment priorities.
• Ensure compliance with HSE standards, environmental regulations, and quality requirements.
• Act as the key interface with regulatory authorities and external stakeholders.
• Support energy efficiency and sustainability programs.
• Lead plant modernization and industrial transformation projects.
• Partner with senior management to support business growth and long-term strategic objectives.

The Successful Applicant

• Degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Proven experience as an Operations Director, Plant Director, Manufacturing Director, or similar senior leadership role within a structured industrial environment.
• Strong background in continuous processing or transformation industries such as food processing, pet food, rendering, chemicals, ingredients, agribusiness, biomass, or related sectors.
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-site operations and complex manufacturing environments.
• Solid knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations and integrated management systems.
• Outstanding leadership, people management, and change management capabilities.
• Fluent Italian and English.
• Willingness to travel regularly between production sites.

What’s on Offer

• Compensation package ranging between €100,000 - € 120,000 base salary plus additional benefits, including company car and performance bonus.
• Performance-based bonus linked to the achievement of agreed objectives;
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development within a stimulating environment;