Operations Director

About Lakeside Book Company

Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America — and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple:
Keep the world reading.

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading and overseeing all day‑to‑day manufacturing operations within the facility, ensuring safe, high quality, efficient and profitable production. This role will manage production and operational excellence initiatives while ensuring alignment with company goals for safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

The Director of Operations will play a critical leadership role in driving continuous improvement initiatives, operational strategy, and fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational discipline.

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for plant operations including production, while maintaining EHS and quality compliance.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet or exceed business objectives in safety, quality, productivity, on‑time delivery, and cost management.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing operations team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Ensure adherence to all regulatory, safety, and company policies and procedures.
• Provide tactical oversight for production planning and scheduling to meet customer demand and inventory management objectives.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and operational efficiency across all functional areas.
• Lead plant KPI development, tracking, and reporting; regularly communicate performance to senior leadership and plant personnel.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with EHS, quality, maintenance/engineering, HR, supply chain, finance, and customer service teams to achieve operational goals.
• Champion lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate as a key contributor in strategic planning and decision‑making processes for plant performance, capacity expansion, and capital investment.
• Serve as critical member of the site leadership team, with the opportunity to step into higher levels of responsibility as readiness is demonstrated.

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 8-12+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, including 5+ years in a senior management role.
• Proven track record of managing large‑scale manufacturing operations and achieving operational targets.
• Strong leadership, people management, and team development skills.
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies, and operational best practices.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and decision‑making abilities.
• Financial and budget management experience.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems, production planning, and manufacturing technology.

• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401k with company match
• Employee Assistance Program

With a proud history dating back to 1980, our site has built a reputation for teamwork, dedication, customer focus, and community spirit. We combine decades of local legacy with the backing of an industry leader.

Our team includes approximately 1,000+ employees — skilled professionals and team players. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to apply and bring their unique perspectives to our team.

Whether you live here or are considering moving, Harrisonburg is a beautiful place in the Shenandoah Valley, surrounded by mountains and rolling hills.

Just 30 minutes away, you’ll find Massanutten Resort, Skyline Drive, and the Blue Ridge Parkway—perfect for hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor fun like fishing and hunting.

The area also offers local vineyards, breweries, parks, bike trails, a community pool, and a children’s museum.

Enjoy a variety of festivals…