Director of Operations

Overview

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading and optimizing end‑to‑end operational execution. This role partners closely with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and oversees Planning, Production, and Costing teams to ensure on‑time, on‑cost, and on‑quality delivery of product in alignment with brand strategy, retailer requirements, and company objectives.

The Director of Operations serves as a central operational leader, driving cross‑functional alignment, mitigating risk, and continuously improving processes across the product lifecycle—from development through bulk production and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Own and oversee all operational functions, ensuring seamless execution across production, costing, planning, and delivery.
• Act as the primary operational partner to Brand, Design, Planning, and Sourcing leadership to support seasonal and long‑range business strategies.
• Establish clear priorities, workflows, and accountability across cross‑functional teams.

Product Creation & Execution

• Lead operational milestones within the Garan Product Creation Process, including pre‑cost reviews, sourcing alignment, and execution readiness.
• Partner with Sourcing and align Costing teams to ensure product viability, margin targets, and risk mitigation prior to retailer line reviews.
• Identify and proactively resolve development or production risks that could impact calendar, cost, or quality.

Sourcing, Production & Cost Management

• Collaborate with Sourcing and oversee Production teams to align sourcing strategies with brand, retailer, and sustainability requirements.
• Oversee cost management, margin performance, and pricing discipline across all programs.
• Support negotiations related to raw materials, factories, and product CM placement in partnership with Sourcing leadership.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Serve as a key point of integration across Design, Product Development, Planning, Production, Quality, and Account Management.
• Ensure strong communication and alignment with internal teams and global partners to support timely decision‑making.
• Oversee Planning and Replenishment teams to support demand, delivery flow, and inventory objectives where applicable.

Process Improvement & Governance

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational processes, standards, and best practices to support scalability and efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to milestone calendars, operational checkpoints, and governance frameworks.
• Drive data‑driven decision‑making through reporting, KPIs, and operational reviews.

People Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop operational team members to build a high‑performing, accountable organization.
• Assess organizational structure, delegate effectively, and ensure appropriate resourcing to meet business needs.
• Foster a collaborative, solutions‑oriented culture across teams.

Qualifications

Experience

• 7-10 years of progressive experience in operations, production, sourcing, or supply chain leadership within apparel or consumer products.
• Proven experience managing complex, cross‑functional operations in a high‑volume, fast‑paced environment.
• Strong understanding of product development, costing, sourcing, and manufacturing processes.

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong executional discipline.
• Excellent cross‑functional leadership and communication skills.
• Deep understanding of calendars, cost drivers, and risk management in apparel operations.
• Ability to balance detail‑oriented execution with big‑picture business objectives.
• Experience working with global teams and overseas partners.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Finance, Supply Chain Management, Textile or Industrial Engineering

Salary: $175,000