Operations Manager

Operations Manager – Manufacturing

Fergus, Ontario | $125,000–$150,000 Annually

Full-Time | Permanent | On-Site

Express Employment Professionals Guelph is recruiting an experienced Operations Manager on behalf of our client, an established and growing manufacturing company in Fergus, Ontario.

This is an exciting opportunity for a results-driven manufacturing leader who can take ownership of daily operations, build a high-performing team and drive operational excellence.

Our client is preparing for an important stage of growth, including the consolidation of manufacturing operations into its Fergus facility. They are seeking a strong leader who can bring structure, accountability and strategic direction to the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all daily manufacturing operations, including production, scheduling, workforce planning and performance.
• Manage, coach and develop a manufacturing team, fostering a positive, accountable and collaborative culture.
• Establish and monitor operational KPIs, including productivity, labour utilization, takt time, production costs and waste.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs and strengthen profitability.
• Develop operational plans to support business growth and increased production capacity.
• Lead workforce integration and operational improvements as manufacturing activities are consolidated.
• Work closely with senior leadership and the Sales Manager to align production capacity with customer requirements.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, cost controls and operational reporting.
• Ensure high standards of quality, safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of manufacturing operations leadership experience.
• Experience managing manufacturing operations, ideally within a $20M–$30M business.
• Strong understanding of production planning, costing, labour efficiency and manufacturing KPIs.
• Proven ability to lead teams, improve performance and build a strong workplace culture.
• Excellent organizational, strategic planning and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and controlling operational costs.
• Experience in metal fabrication, welding or custom manufacturing is an asset.
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or PMP certification is an asset.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $125,000–$150,000 annually, based on experience.
• 3–4 weeks of vacation.
• $1,200 annual Health Spending Account for eligible healthcare expenses.
• Flexible start date.
• Long-term career opportunity with an established, growing manufacturer.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on operations, culture and future growth.

The Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who doesn't simply manage production but takes ownership of results.

You are a hands-on, numbers-driven leader who understands manufacturing operations, knows how to build strong teams and can balance daily execution with long-term strategic planning.

You bring the confidence to make decisions, the ability to develop people and the drive to continuously improve performance.

Interested in Learning More?

Express Employment Professionals Guelph is managing this confidential recruitment process on behalf of our client.

Qualified candidates are invited to apply for a confidential discussion about this leadership opportunity.

Express Employment Professionals (Guelph) is a licensed Temporary Help Agency operating in full compliance with the Ontario Employment Standards Act, Pay Transparency requirements (effective January 1, 2026), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and all applicable Temporary Help Agency regulations. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and do not require Canadian experience. Applicants are advised that artificial intelligence tools may be used to support initial screening, assessment, or selection processes. Express Employment Professionals provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process upon request. This job posting and any associated applicant information will be retained for a period of three (3) years in accordance with provincial regulations.