Summary

The Director of Operations serves as the operational arm of the Vice President of Ready Mix, responsible for driving division-wide operational strategy, asset performance, and consistency across all Ready Mix markets and locations.

This role owns the systems, standards, and infrastructure that enable operational success. While General Managers maintain full accountability for financial performance and day-to-day execution within their markets, the Director of Operations ensures that all areas operate within a consistent, high-performing operational framework.

The Director of Operations leads through standard setting, data-driven accountability, and cross-functional alignment, partnering closely with General Managers to drive performance, efficiency, and long-term scalability across the division.

This role also partners across all departments within the Company, leveraging cross-functional resources and collaboration to support operational decision-making, alignment, and execution.

Essential Responsibilities

The requirements represent the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to fulfill position expectations. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other duties as needed to meet the organization's ongoing needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Additional or other duties may be assigned.

Operational Strategy & Alignment

• Partner with the VP of Ready Mix to define and execute division-wide operational strategy aligned with company goals
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational expectations, standards, and initiatives across all markets
• Serve as a key connector between executive leadership and field operations, ensuring alignment and removing barriers to execution
• Lead cross-market initiatives that improve consistency, efficiency, and scalability
• Partner cross-functionally with department including Construction, Finance, HR, Safety, and IT to ensure alignment, resource optimization, and effective execution of operational initiatives  

Operational Standards & Consistency

• Establish and enforce division-wide operational standards, including plant operations, fleet utilization, maintenance practices, and facility performance
• Develop and implement standardization processes, policies, and expectations across all Ready Mix markets
• Partner with General Managers to ensure consistent adoption and execution of operational standards
• Identify and address variability in performance across markets, driving alignment and continuous improvement

Asset & Maintenance Strategy

• Own division-wide performance of plants, fleet, equipment, and facilities
• Develop and execute lifecycle management strategies, including replacement, refurbishment, and capital planning
• Provide strategic oversight of Maintenance function, ensuring effective preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance programs
• Optimize asset utilization, reliability, and cost efficiency across all markets

 Capital Planning & Operational Efficiency

• Lead development and execution of capital planning strategies aligned with operational needs and growth objectives
• Partner with Finance and Operations leadership to prioritize capital investments and maximize return on investment
• Monitor operational and financial performance metrics to identify opportunities for cost control and efficiency improvements
• Drive initiatives that improve productivity, reduce downtime, and enhance overall operational effectiveness

Cross-Market Leadership & Influence

• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to General Managers and Operations teams without direct reporting authority
• Drive alignment through clear expectations, performance metrics, and transparent communication
• Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across markets to elevate overall division performance
• Address operational challenges through partnership and influence, escalating misalignment when necessary  

Performance Management & Accountability

• Establish key operational performance indicators and benchmarks across all markets
• Monitor performance data to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for improvement
• Hold operational leaders accountable to division-wide standards through structured review processes  
• Partner with the VP of Ready Mix to address performance issues and ensure alignment with division expectations

Specialized Operational Programs

• Provide leadership and oversight of specialized operational programs (e.g., Hydro Chipping or similar services)
• Ensure programs operate safely, efficiently, and profitably while aligned with division standards
• Identify opportunities to expand, optimize, or scale operational programs to support growth 

 Portable Plant Operations

• Provide oversight and strategic direction for portable plant operations utilized on project-based work (e.g., large-scale or specialty projects)
• Ensure portable plant operations are set up, maintained, and executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with division standards
• Partner with Construction and project teams to support planning, deployment, and operational execution
• Evaluate opportunities to expand or refine portable plant capabilities as part of the division’s long term operational strategy   

Organizational Alignment & Authority

• General Managers retain full ownership of:
• P&L performance
• Personnel decisions
• Day-to-day operational execution within their markets
• The Director of Operations has authority over:
• Division-wide operational standards and expectations
• Asset strategy and maintenance programs
• Capital planning framework and operational systems
• Implementation of standardized processes impacting operations
• The role operates through:
• Influence and partnership with General Managers
• Alignment with the VP of Ready Mix for enforcement and escalation
• Data-driven accountability and performance transparency 

Direct Reports

• Performance and Technology Manager
• Plant Maintenance Manager
• Hydro-Chipping Team Lead
• Future operational or technical roles as the division scales

Qualifications

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in ready mix, construction materials, or heavy operations
• Proven experience leading multi-site or regional operations
• Strong background in asset management, maintenance strategy, and operational performance

Skills & Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to translate strategy into execution
• Ability to lead through influence in a matrixed environment
• Deep understanding of plant operations, fleet, logistics, and operational systems
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
• Excellent communication skills and leadership presence

Measures of Success

• Improved consistency in operational performance across all markets
• Increased asset reliability and reduced downtime
• Effective execution of capital plans and operational initiatives
• Measurable improvements in efficiency, cost control, and safety
• Strong alignment and collaboration across General Managers and operational teams
• Demonstrated ability to drive results through influence, partnership, and accountability

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
• Ability to stand, walk, and navigate active plant and construction environments
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed
• Ability to travel regularly to plant and project locations
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle

About Us

Founded in 1947 and headquartered in Brooklyn, Iowa, Manatt’s is a leader in Iowa's heavy highway construction and materials industry. We specialize in asphalt, concrete, and chipseal coating, with additional expertise in recycle crushing, stabilization, milling, grinding, subdrain installation, and more.

At Manatt’s, we have the experts, equipment, resources, and top-quality materials needed to safely and efficiently complete any project. Our integrated approach and unwavering commitment to building exceptional relationships allow us to deliver uncompromising quality and construction services. Our mission is to continually set and reset the standard by which all other construction material companies are measured. We don’t just build infrastructure; we build legacies through higher standards of work and a dedication to excellence in everything we do.