Director of Operations - DTC (Automotive products)
Keller Executive Search, Perrysburg, OH, United States
Overview
Our client is a fast-growing, direct-to-consumer automotive car care brand based just east of Cleveland, Ohio. The company has scaled significantly in annual revenue, selling across its own website, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and wholesale channels.
The business has reached an inflection point where operational infrastructure must catch up with growth. The company is hiring a
Director of Operations
to step in, take full ownership of day-to-day operations, and build the systems and team structure needed to support the next phase of scale. This role reports directly to the CEO and is designed to free the founder from operational execution so he can focus on growth, brand, and strategy.
This is not a maintenance role. It is a leadership position for someone who has already managed a scaling operation through real pressure and is ready to own it completely.
Key Responsibilities Manufacturing & Production
Own all in-house manufacturing and production operations, including chemistry-based product manufacturing
Maintain quality control systems and ensure batch consistency
Manage production scheduling based on demand forecasts
Oversee procurement of raw materials and supplier relationships
Ensure manufacturing capacity scales with company growth
Evaluate and execute long-term transition opportunities to outsourced or contract manufacturing
Support product development and ensure smooth transition from R&D into production
Fulfillment & Logistics
Lead the company's fulfillment infrastructure across all channels (Amazon FBA, TikTok Shop, Shopify DTC)
Drive the transition from in-house fulfillment to third-party logistics (3PL) partners
Manage inbound freight and parcel shipments to warehouses and fulfillment partners
Ensure service-level agreements are met with logistics providers
Oversee returns processes and coordination with customer service
Manage warehouse staffing, productivity, and operational performance
Inventory & Demand Planning
Build and maintain forecasting models across all SKUs and sales channels
Manage purchase order planning and inventory replenishment
Prevent stockouts while minimizing inventory carrying costs
Align inventory planning with seasonal demand patterns
Coordinate with finance on inventory purchases and cash deployment
International Supply Chain
Manage overseas supplier and contract manufacturer relationships
Oversee import logistics, customs compliance, and container shipments
Optimize supplier lead times and reduce supply chain disruptions
Maintain supplier quality standards
Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and landed costs
Team Leadership & HR
Lead and manage a team of seven direct reports spanning warehouse and logistics, fulfillment, production, manufacturing and private label, supply chain, customer service, and HR
Hire, train, and develop team members across all operational functions
Establish performance metrics and operational accountability
Build compensation structures and operational incentive programs
Maintain safety standards across all operational functions
Foster a strong culture aligned with company values
Operational Financial Performance
Manage operational budgets across manufacturing, fulfillment, and logistics
Improve gross margins through cost optimization and operational efficiencies
Maintain oversight of cost of goods sold
Identify opportunities to improve systems and reduce operational costs
Required Qualifications
5–10 years of progressive operations leadership experience
Demonstrated experience scaling operations inside a fast-growing DTC or CPG brand (not enterprise or Fortune 500) — ideally at a company doing $10M–$100M in revenue
Direct experience managing fulfillment, warehouse operations, and supply chain simultaneously
Experience managing manufacturing operations and production environments
Experience managing fulfillment across multiple e-commerce channels (Amazon FBA, TikTok Shop, Shopify, or equivalent)
Proficiency in 3PL management, demand forecasting, and inventory control
Proven ability to build, lead, and hold operational teams accountable
Comfortable working with data across systems, including data aggregation, API connections, and automation tools (e.g., Google Apps Script or similar)
Familiarity with ops and e-commerce platforms such as Monday.com, Shopify, or equivalent
Strong analytical, forecasting, and operational planning skills
Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, or a related field
Must be authorized to work in the United States — visa sponsorship is not available for this position
Preferred Qualifications
Experience through an acquisition, 3PL transition, or high-growth inflection point
Automotive care, home care, personal care, or consumables industry experience
Experience with domestic and international supply chain and contract manufacturing relationships
Multi-channel fulfillment experience spanning DTC, marketplace, and wholesale
Familiarity with AI tooling and integrating it into operational systems to drive efficiency
Experience implementing inventory management systems or ERP platforms
MBA or equivalent advanced degree (though track record can outweigh credentials)
Mandarin language skills are a plus but not required
Experience managing through culture change or rapid team growth
Has built operational playbooks and processes from scratch in environments with little existing structure
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary:
$115,000–$140,000 depending on experience
Performance Bonus:
Up to 15% of annual base salary, tied to agreed-upon metrics
401(k):
Company match at 4%
Paid Time Off:
2 weeks PTO
Parental Leave:
4 weeks paid parental leave
Additional Benefits:
Health benefit program included
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information:
For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.
Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Workplace Harassment:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.
E-Verify Participation:
Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.
Privacy and Pay Equity:
California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
State-Specific Information:
Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment:
Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles.
Genetic Information:
In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.
Local Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.
Note:
This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.
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The business has reached an inflection point where operational infrastructure must catch up with growth. The company is hiring a
Director of Operations
to step in, take full ownership of day-to-day operations, and build the systems and team structure needed to support the next phase of scale. This role reports directly to the CEO and is designed to free the founder from operational execution so he can focus on growth, brand, and strategy.
This is not a maintenance role. It is a leadership position for someone who has already managed a scaling operation through real pressure and is ready to own it completely.
Key Responsibilities Manufacturing & Production
Own all in-house manufacturing and production operations, including chemistry-based product manufacturing
Maintain quality control systems and ensure batch consistency
Manage production scheduling based on demand forecasts
Oversee procurement of raw materials and supplier relationships
Ensure manufacturing capacity scales with company growth
Evaluate and execute long-term transition opportunities to outsourced or contract manufacturing
Support product development and ensure smooth transition from R&D into production
Fulfillment & Logistics
Lead the company's fulfillment infrastructure across all channels (Amazon FBA, TikTok Shop, Shopify DTC)
Drive the transition from in-house fulfillment to third-party logistics (3PL) partners
Manage inbound freight and parcel shipments to warehouses and fulfillment partners
Ensure service-level agreements are met with logistics providers
Oversee returns processes and coordination with customer service
Manage warehouse staffing, productivity, and operational performance
Inventory & Demand Planning
Build and maintain forecasting models across all SKUs and sales channels
Manage purchase order planning and inventory replenishment
Prevent stockouts while minimizing inventory carrying costs
Align inventory planning with seasonal demand patterns
Coordinate with finance on inventory purchases and cash deployment
International Supply Chain
Manage overseas supplier and contract manufacturer relationships
Oversee import logistics, customs compliance, and container shipments
Optimize supplier lead times and reduce supply chain disruptions
Maintain supplier quality standards
Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and landed costs
Team Leadership & HR
Lead and manage a team of seven direct reports spanning warehouse and logistics, fulfillment, production, manufacturing and private label, supply chain, customer service, and HR
Hire, train, and develop team members across all operational functions
Establish performance metrics and operational accountability
Build compensation structures and operational incentive programs
Maintain safety standards across all operational functions
Foster a strong culture aligned with company values
Operational Financial Performance
Manage operational budgets across manufacturing, fulfillment, and logistics
Improve gross margins through cost optimization and operational efficiencies
Maintain oversight of cost of goods sold
Identify opportunities to improve systems and reduce operational costs
Required Qualifications
5–10 years of progressive operations leadership experience
Demonstrated experience scaling operations inside a fast-growing DTC or CPG brand (not enterprise or Fortune 500) — ideally at a company doing $10M–$100M in revenue
Direct experience managing fulfillment, warehouse operations, and supply chain simultaneously
Experience managing manufacturing operations and production environments
Experience managing fulfillment across multiple e-commerce channels (Amazon FBA, TikTok Shop, Shopify, or equivalent)
Proficiency in 3PL management, demand forecasting, and inventory control
Proven ability to build, lead, and hold operational teams accountable
Comfortable working with data across systems, including data aggregation, API connections, and automation tools (e.g., Google Apps Script or similar)
Familiarity with ops and e-commerce platforms such as Monday.com, Shopify, or equivalent
Strong analytical, forecasting, and operational planning skills
Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, or a related field
Must be authorized to work in the United States — visa sponsorship is not available for this position
Preferred Qualifications
Experience through an acquisition, 3PL transition, or high-growth inflection point
Automotive care, home care, personal care, or consumables industry experience
Experience with domestic and international supply chain and contract manufacturing relationships
Multi-channel fulfillment experience spanning DTC, marketplace, and wholesale
Familiarity with AI tooling and integrating it into operational systems to drive efficiency
Experience implementing inventory management systems or ERP platforms
MBA or equivalent advanced degree (though track record can outweigh credentials)
Mandarin language skills are a plus but not required
Experience managing through culture change or rapid team growth
Has built operational playbooks and processes from scratch in environments with little existing structure
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary:
$115,000–$140,000 depending on experience
Performance Bonus:
Up to 15% of annual base salary, tied to agreed-upon metrics
401(k):
Company match at 4%
Paid Time Off:
2 weeks PTO
Parental Leave:
4 weeks paid parental leave
Additional Benefits:
Health benefit program included
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information:
For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.
Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Workplace Harassment:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.
E-Verify Participation:
Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.
Privacy and Pay Equity:
California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
State-Specific Information:
Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment:
Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles.
Genetic Information:
In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.
Local Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.
Note:
This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.
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