Director of Operations

DLF North America is currently recruiting for a Director of Operations for our operations located in Albany, OR.

DLF Group is the world leader in the development and sale of high-quality grass seeds for the agricultural forage and (professional) lawn markets. By continuously developing new innovative varieties and products, and with a strong focus on quality and reliability, DLF Group offers demonstrable value to the business of their customers and other relationships.

DLF North America SBU, is one of our four Strategic Business Units. DLF employees are characterized by a high level of competency, passion, and commitment. In everything we do we act with respect, trust and integrity.

Come grow with DLF!

Check us out www.dlf.com (Global) & www.us.dlf.com (USA) & www.ca.dlf.com (CA) & visit our careers page at https://careers.dlf.com.

About the job

The Director of Operations oversees end-to-end daily operations, ensuring the Albany site operates safely, efficiently, and in alignment with company standards and strategic priorities. This role leads cross-functional teams, manages workflows across supply chain and operational processes, and partners with regional leaders to drive continuous improvement, financial performance, and customer service outcomes. The Director of Operations is accountable for operational governance, cost control, resource allocation, and ensuring the site is performing at a high operational and financial standard. They act as the central point of contact for all site-related decisions, risks, and escalations.

Job Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Lead all day-to-day site operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant execution across production, logistics, planning, inventory, and procurement activities.
• Provide leadership, direction, and support to on-site teams and functional leads.
• Ensure clear coordination and communication across departments to maintain seamless operational flow.

Supply Chain & Planning Coordination

• Maintain alignment between supply, demand, and operational capacity to meet service and production goals.
• Oversee production scheduling, inventory flow, and inbound/outbound logistics.
• Support regional leaders and cross-functional teams (procurement, inventory, planning, customer service) to ensure materials and products move through the supply chain effectively.
• Coordinate with internal and external warehouse and storage locations within the Oregon network.

Performance, Efficiency & Financial Management

• Monitor operational performance and site-level KPIs, identifying opportunities and driving actions to improve efficiency, productivity, and service levels.
• Manage site financial performance, including operating costs, resource utilisation, and budget adherence.
• Drive initiatives that ensure the site remains financially sustainable, efficient, and competitive.

Governance, Standards & Compliance

• Ensure operational processes, safety protocols, and site practices comply with company, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Develop, implement, and reinforce standard operating procedures and governance frameworks.
• Lead resolution of operational issues and escalations, ensuring decisions follow governance and compliance requirements.

Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Champion a strong safety culture through leadership, communication, and visible engagement.
• Ensure all safety, environmental, and quality standards are upheld across the site.
• Conduct and support safety audits, incident investigations, and compliance reviews.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead and support continuous improvement activities aimed at reducing cost, increasing throughput, and improving quality and service.
• Identify operational risks, inefficiencies, and bottlenecks, implementing corrective actions or process improvements.
• Participate in regional or cross-site improvement initiatives and knowledge-sharing forums.

Systems & Reporting

• Use ERP, planning, and reporting systems (Navision, Anaplan, Power BI) to support decision-making and maintain operational visibility.
• Review site performance data and prepare reports for senior leadership as required.
• Ensure data accuracy and transparency across operational and supply chain activities.

Leadership & People Development

• Provide coaching, mentoring, and development opportunities for staff and functional leads.
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on teamwork, accountability, and innovation.
• Maintain flexibility in managing direct reports as organisational structure evolves.

Other Duties

• Represent the site in the North America Supply Chain Leadership Group.
• Support strategic initiatives and business priorities as assigned by senior leadership.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or equivalent experience.
• 7–10+ years of progressive experience in operations or supply chain leadership.
• Proven experience leading teams and influencing across functions.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain, logistics, production, and inventory operations.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement standard processes and governance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred:

• Experience with ERP systems.
• Familiarity with planning and reporting tools such as Anaplan and Power BI.
• Experience leading cross-site or regional operations.

Compensation and Benefits: 

DLF USA Inc. offers a compensation plan that includes a base salary, benefits that include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, bonus available, retirement savings plan with company contribution, paid holidays, vacation, and personal days. Compensation will be based on experience.

Why work for DLF? 

We do good things! Turf grass is more than just a pretty sight – it helps fight climate change by trapping carbon and preventing soil erosion, making it a vital ally in preserving the environment. Grass acts as a natural filter, purifying water and improving air quality.  Perennial forage grass and legume crops also provide essential habitats for diverse wildlife, showcasing the crucial role of supporting biodiversity and sustaining ecosystems. Grass, alfalfa and clover feed animals and produce oxygen. Just a few reasons.... and many more! Check us out!

Ready to make an impact? We invite you to come and grow with us!

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in joining our DLF team, please apply to the role on our careers page. https://careers.dlf.com. Please upload your resume and a cover letter highlighting your talent and why you fit this role.

We thank all applicants who apply for this position but advise only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

DLF USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Accommodations for job applicants with disabilities will be provided upon request during the recruitment, assessment, selection, and placement process. Alternate format available upon request.