Job Description
ICON Visual is seeking an experienced and results-oriented Director of Operations to lead and optimize all aspects of our large-format print manufacturing, signage production, installation logistics, and operational performance. Reporting directly to the President, the Director of Operations will oversee production, project management, procurement, quality assurance, installation coordination, inventory management, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, maximizing profitability, maintaining exceptional customer satisfaction, and supporting the company's growth objectives.
The ideal candidate combines strong leadership skills with deep experience in large-format printing, visual communications, signage manufacturing, or a related production environment.
Primary Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership
- Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with company growth and profitability objectives.
- Lead daily operations across production, finishing, project management, logistics, installation, and procurement functions.
- Directly manage and provide leadership to all Visual department managers, including Production, Project Management, Procurement, Installation, Customer Service, and Facilities.
- Establish departmental goals, KPIs, and accountability measures to ensure alignment with company objectives.
- Conduct regular management meetings and performance reviews with department leaders.
- Serve as the primary operational liaison between department managers and the President, ensuring timely communication of operational performance, challenges, and opportunities.
- Identify operational risks and provide recommendations to the President regarding staffing, workflow improvements, capital expenditures, and strategic initiatives.
- Drive cross-department collaboration and resolve conflicts to ensure efficient project execution and customer satisfaction.
- Assume responsibility for day-to-day operational decision-making while keeping the President informed of significant issues and business developments.
- Establish performance standards, workflows, and accountability measures across departments.
- Foster a culture of safety, quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Production & Manufacturing Management
- Oversee all large-format print production processes, including:
- UV flatbed printing
- Roll-to-roll printing
- Dye-sublimation printing
- CNC routing and cutting
- Laminating and finishing
- Fabrication and assembly
- Ensure efficient scheduling and utilization of equipment, labor, and facility resources.
- Monitor production capacity and implement strategies to maximize throughput and profitability.
- Drive operational efficiencies through lean manufacturing and workflow optimization.
Project & Installation Management
- Ensure seamless execution of customer projects from order intake through installation and completion.
- Coordinate production schedules with project managers, account managers, and installation teams.
- Oversee installation planning, subcontractor relationships, site logistics, and field execution.
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to client specifications.
Financial & Performance Management
- Develop and manage operational budgets, labor plans, and departmental KPIs.
- Monitor production costs, gross margins, overtime, waste, and operational profitability.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiencies, reduce costs, and increase capacity.
- Provide regular operational reporting and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
Supply Chain & Procurement
- Oversee purchasing, inventory management, and supplier relationships.
- Negotiate pricing and service agreements with material vendors and subcontractors.
- Ensure availability of substrates, inks, hardware, and installation materials while maintaining optimal inventory levels.
- Manage vendor performance and supply chain risk.
Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement
- Establish and maintain quality control standards across all production and installation activities.
- Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
- Lead root-cause analysis and corrective action processes.
Team Leadership & Development
- Recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing operational leaders and production teams.
- Conduct performance reviews and succession planning.
- Promote employee engagement, accountability, and professional development.
- Build strong cross-functional relationships with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Customer Service teams.
Health & Safety Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all workplace health and safety regulations and company policies.
- Maintain a safe working environment across production facilities and installation sites.
- Lead safety training, audits, and incident prevention initiatives.
Qualifications:
Required Experience
- 8–10+ years of progressive operations leadership experience.
- 5+ years in a senior management role overseeing manufacturing, production, or operational teams.
- Experience within one or more of the following industries:
- Large-format printing
- Signage and visual communications
- Commercial Print
- Display and exhibit manufacturing
- Architectural graphics
- Custom fabrication
Industry Knowledge
- Strong understanding of large-format printing technologies, production workflows, and finishing processes.
- Knowledge of substrates including ACM, acrylic, Sintra/PVC, foam board, fabric, aluminum, and specialty materials.
- Familiarity with installation logistics, project management, and field operations.
- Understanding of estimating, production costing, and manufacturing economics.
Leadership Skills
- Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams in a fast-paced production environment.
- Strong strategic planning and organizational capabilities.
- Experience driving operational transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Excellent conflict resolution and decision-making skills.
Technical & Business Skills
- Experience with ERP, MIS, CRM, and production management software.
- Strong financial acumen and budget management experience.
- Advanced understanding of operational KPIs, forecasting, and capacity planning.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and business reporting tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, PMP, or related operational certifications.
- Experience managing multi-site operations.
- Experience scaling operations in a high-growth environment.
Please note that ICON Digital requires a mandatory Criminal Background check prior to employment.
ABOUT ICON
ICON is a full-service organization with a 120,000 square foot state-of-the-art production facility based in Markham, Ontario. With additional offices based in Toronto, New York, and Montreal, we are unmatched in terms of technology, production capabilities, and product diversity, serviced by the most experienced and knowledgeable team of display graphics, digital signage, video production, and print professionals in the business. ICON’s reputation for reliability, quality workmanship, professionalism, and customer service is well earned and reflected by the trust and loyalty of clients we serve.
As a multi-faceted visual communications media company, we serve our clients’ needs of transforming spaces in retail, out-of-home advertising, digital, corporate/event marketing, hospitality, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industries. Our company name represents strength and innovation, both of which are necessary for growth and success within our respective industries. Within ICON we have two divisions – ICON Media and ICON Visual; these divisions support the commitment we give to our clients to continue being leaders in All Things Visual.
We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. ICON Visual is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.
ICON Visual is a supporter of AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act). Accommodation will be provided to all applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. Please include a summary of the accommodation required in your application email.
