Operations Business Partner

Operations Business Partner

iMBranded is one of the nation's leading providers of facility imaging programs. We are a full-service manufacturer of fixtures, furniture and graphic products specializing in the retail automotive segment with OEMs and the dealer network.

The Operations Business Partner (OBP) is the strategic "force multiplier" for the Chief Operating Officer (COO). In a business that integrates high-precision architectural millwork with custom graphics production, this role functions as the essential bridge between executive vision and cross-functional execution. You will work directly with each functional area to drive day-to-day continuous improvements, close process gaps, and ensure that both quality standards and long-term strategic initiatives remain on track through rigorous KPI tracking and follow-up.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (included but not limited to):

• Functional Alignment & KPI Support:
  • Partners with functional leads to identify and execute key improvement actions within their specific Critical Focus Areas (see below).
  • Lead the weekly KPI reporting and review process, ensuring data-driven accountability across all departments.
  • Conduct regular "deep dives" into functional workflows to troubleshoot inefficiencies and implement sustainable, root-cause solutions.
• Continuous Improvement & Quality Assurance:
  • Identify and resolve daily cross-functional "bottlenecks" that impede flow or erode profitability.
  • Champion a culture of Quality by integrating rigorous QC checkpoints and tracking metrics like Work Order (WO) exceptions and redline generation.
  • Monitor production readiness, and communication thereof between all stakeholders (Project management, Shipping, Installation)
• SOP & Process Support:
  • Act as a support lead for department heads to document, refine, and standardize Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Audit "hand-off" points between siloed teams—specifically ensuring seamless coordination between Engineering, Production, and Logistics.
  • Maintain the central repository for operational processes, ensuring they are accessible and consistently followed.
• Strategic Initiative Leadership & Tracking:
  • Drive progress on long-term corporate initiatives (e.g., Software evaluations, 3rd party partnerships, facility and equipment upgrades, or product line expansions) through rigorous tracking and follow-up.
  • Represent the COO at key stakeholder meetings, ensuring the executive's strategic intent is upheld and that action items are executed by department leads.
  • Develop and maintain high-level project roadmaps, providing the COO with a "single source of truth" for all non-project business goals

REQUIRED SKILLS/COMPETENCIES (included but are not limited to):

• Diverse Industry Acumen: Deep understanding of the architectural millwork and custom graphics lifecycle.
• Systems Thinking: Ability to see how changes in one functional area impact the entire value chain.
• Influence Without Authority: Proven track record of driving results across diverse teams that do not directly report to you.
• Data Literacy: Expert at synthesizing operational data into actionable executive summaries; comfortable with job costing and WIP (Work in Progress) reports.
• Experience: 8+ years in operations management, corporate strategy, or a "Chief of Staff" style role in a complex manufacturing environment.
• Strong financial acumen with expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client-facing skills.
• Ability to travel nationally as required (30%).
• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Results-driven with strong financial accountability
• Leadership and team development
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution
• Client relationship management
• Operational excellence and continuous improvement

Education & Experience

• Formal Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Construction Management, or Engineering is required. An MBA or advanced degree in a related field is highly preferred.
• Professional Experience: 8–10+ years of progressive experience in operations management, corporate strategy, or a "Chief of Staff" style role within a complex manufacturing or construction environment.
• Industry Knowledge: Proven experience in the architectural millwork, specialty interiors, or custom fabrication industry is a significant advantage.
• Technical Literacy: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with ERP systems; familiarity with industry software

WHO WE ARE

iMBranded is a leading national manufacturer specializing in architectural millwork and large format graphics across multiple industries including retail, hospitality, automotive and finance. Since 1996, we have been building branded environments for some of the world's largest brands. Our team of experts understand the importance of even the most finite details of every fixture and how it brings the power of your brand to life.

Critical Focus Areas & Metrics by Function

EXAMPLE: You will partner with leaders in these departments to drive the following operational outcomes:

Function - Critical Focus Areas & Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Engineering / Drafting - Efficiency & Accuracy: Tracking # DNU (redlines) generated vs. # of engineering tasks to improve drawing quality.

Production (Mill & Graphics) - Readiness & Throughput: Monitoring # WO exceptions and % of orders reaching "ready to package" 3 days prior to ship date.

Project Management - Margin & Schedule Health: Monitoring # of "past due" Work Orders and ensuring job margin visibility at time of shipment.

Installation / Field - Planning & Execution: Facilitating required install planning meetings for new starts and return trips to reduce site rework.

Logistics / Fulfillment - Golden Orders: Achieving 100% on-time and in-full shipments to protect the firm's reputation and profitability.