Senior Operations Leader for Sustainable Materials Innovation

Mycoworks Inc is seeking a Senior Operations Leader for Sustainable Materials Innovation in Valencia, Spain. This role involves leading tanning operations, driving improvements in throughput, and ensuring safety and quality. Key responsibilities include implementing processes, managing performance, and fostering a positive culture. Candidates should have a relevant degree and extensive experience in the tanning industry, including leadership and cross-functional collaboration.
We're driving a revolution in materials science by harnessing the unique properties of mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. Our patented technology, Fine Mycelium, unlocks a new class of materials crafted from nature, engineered for performance, and built for a resilient future.
Job Overview

We're seeking an experienced Senior Manager, Operations to lead our tanning operations at our partner site in Igualada, Spain. This role is critical in driving consistent increases in throughput through continuous improvement and loss elimination methodologies, while maintaining a strong foundation of all safety and quality systems.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead implementation of the MycoWay by leveraging servant leadership principles and cross-functional collaboration.
• Define production processes and drive cross-functional projects with Process Development, Product, and Quality teams.
• Create and execute against an annual Master Plan and corresponding 30-60-90 Day Plans.
• Execute the PDCA cycle with a focus on eliminating top chronic losses and ensuring a 'Zero Defect' culture.
• Assist in resolving technical issues and managing team performance, including setting clear goals and expectations, providing timely feedback, and conducting semi-annual performance reviews.
• Drive company vision across all tanning operations and foster a winning culture.
Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Leather Technology, Leather Science, or Engineering preferred.
• 8+ years' experience in the tanning industry, with 4+ years' people management experience and a proven record of building capability in the organization.
• Thorough understanding of TPM methodologies and implementation, knowledge of root cause analysis tools, and ability to train the broader organization on their proper execution.
• Experience working in cross-functional teams, starting up new processes, equipment, and/or production lines, and effectively giving and receiving feedback to individuals at all levels of the organization.