Director, Operations - ONSITE in Janesville, WI

Responsibilities / TasksFounded in Germany in 1881, GEA Group is a global leader in engineering solutions serving the food & beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical, and related industries. With more than 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA blends a proud heritage with forward-thinking innovation.At GEA, we’re not just building equipment — we’re building lasting careers. Our strong culture, growth opportunities, and employee support are reflected in an average tenure of 5-11+ years.Why Join GEA?Start strong - Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first dayRecharge and refresh - 12 paid holidays (including a floating holiday) plus 136 hours of PTOInvest in your future - 7% 401(k) employer matchKeep learning - Tuition reimbursement to grow your education and skillsLive well - Wellness Incentive ProgramGet support when you need it - Confidential Employee Assistance ProgramSave smart - Flexible Health Savings and Spending AccountsThe Director of Operations provides strategic and operational leadership across sales support, order management, customer service, forecasting, and cross-functional execution. This role ensures operational excellence, drives revenue performance, enhances customer satisfaction, and aligns operational strategy with company objectives.The Director will lead a team of Technical Sales Engineers and Customer Service Representatives while partnering with Regional Sales Managers, Finance, and Manufacturing teams to optimize processes, profitability, and customer outcomes.Your responsibilities:Operational & Strategic LeadershipLead and develop a high-performing team responsible for quoting, order entry, and technical sales support for new applications and spare parts.Develop and execute comprehensive operational strategies aligned with revenue targets and growth initiatives.Drive monthly sales forecasting and maintain a rolling 3-month outlook.Track order fulfillment and billing to ensure revenue commitments are achieved.Identify process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce cycle time, and optimize working capital.Financial & Commercial OversightManage pricing strategies, ensuring alignment with factory cost changes, inflation, labor, and foreign exchange impacts.Standardize and oversee discount structures for Distributors, Master Distributors, and OEM/Integrators.Partner with Finance to manage Accounts Receivable, credit accounts, and working capital performance.Ensure operational execution supports revenue growth and margin protection.Cross-Functional CollaborationCoordinate customer requirements with factories to meet delivery expectations.Partner with internal sales and technical teams to leverage market intelligence and customer insights.Contribute to product roadmap discussions by translating operational and customer feedback into actionable insights.Support Regional Sales Managers in identifying new business opportunities and expanding customer accounts.Leadership & Talent DevelopmentCoach and mentor Technical Sales Engineers and customer service professionals.Build a strong bench of future sales and operational leaders.Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Lead change management initiatives within a matrix organization.Your Profile / QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Management, or related field7-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, technical sales, or commercial managementExperience working with technical or engineered productsExposure to multinational, matrix organizationsStrong financial acumen, including AR and working capital managementProven internal and external sales leadership experienceDemonstrated success leading and developing cross-functional teamsExperience driving operational efficiency and process optimizationStrong communication and presentation skillsFluent English requiredCore CompetenciesStrategic thinking with the ability to simplify complex issuesHigh performance under pressure in fast-paced environmentsDetail-oriented with strong process disciplineStrong planning, scheduling, and delegation skillsAbility to balance commercial goals with operational executionChange leadership and continuous improvement mindsetAt GEA, we don’t just offer jobs—we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make an impact.The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $120K - $140K. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States.The pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards.GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified.Please note: This position is based in the United States and does not offer visa or work sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.#EngineeringforthebetterDid we spark your interest?Then please click apply above to access our guided application process.

Created: 2026-04-02