Director Industrial Operating Systems

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Date: Jan 13, 2026

Location: Detroit, DE, US

Company: Leggett & Platt

We, at Leggett & Platt Inc., are searching for a Director Industrial Operating Systems within our Operations team to help support our Automotive business. Did you know we are the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of seating support and comfort systems for transportation manufacturers, as well as tier one and two suppliers within the automotive industry? That’s right! Our automotive products fall into four primary groups: Seating and Lumbar support, Motors, Actuators and Massage Systems. If you join our team, your work will ensure people across the world have a little more comfort in their lives.

 

The Director Industrial Operating Systems is a strategic leader responsible for driving operational excellence across global manufacturing sites. This role leads the development and deployment of standardized operating systems, advanced automation technologies, and AI-driven process improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and scalability. The Director will play a critical role in shaping the future of manufacturing within the organization, aligning with Industry 4.0 principles and sustainability goals.

 

As the Director Industrial Operating Systems, you will:

  • Automation & Smart Manufacturing: evaluate and implement emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce cost, champion the integration of AI and machine learning to optimize production planning, predictive maintenance, and quality control
  • Operational Strategy & Leadership: lead cross-functional teams to implement standardized manufacturing systems and processes across all sites. Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and digital tools. Define and execute the global industrial operations strategy in alignment with corporate objectives
  • Standardisation & Systems Development: develop and enforce global standards for manufacturing processes, KPIs, and reporting. Lead the design and rollout of a unified operating system across plants, ensuring consistency and scalability. Collaborate with IT and engineering to ensure systems integration and data integrity
  • Leadership & Team Development: build and lead a high-performing team of operations, automation, and systems professionals. Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning. Partner with HR to develop training programs for digital and automation competencies
  • Stakeholder Engagement: collaborate with plant managers, engineering, supply chain, and commercial teams to align operational goals. Represent the company in industry forums and technology partnerships. Provide regular updates to executive leadership on performance, risks, and strategic initiatives

 

To be successful, you'll need:

  • University degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in industrial operations, with a strong background in automation and systems standardisation
  • Proven track record of leading large-scale transformation initiatives in automotive or advanced manufacturing
  • Deep understanding of Industry 4.0 technologies, AI applications in manufacturing, and global operations
  • Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills

What to Do Next

Now that you’ve had a chance to learn more about us, what are you waiting for! Apply today and allow us the opportunity to learn more about you and the value you can bring to our team. Once you apply, be sure to create a profile, and sign up for job alerts, so you can be the first to know when new opportunities become available.

 

Our Values

Our values speak to our shared beliefs, and describe how we approach working together.

  • Put People First reflects our commitment to safety and care of each other, learning and development, and creating an environment of mutual respect, empathy and belonging.
  • Do the Right Thing focuses us on acting with honesty and integrity, delivering the results the right way, taking pride in our work, and speaking the truth – good or bad.
  • Do Great Work…Together occurs when we engage without hierarchy, collaborate as a team, embrace challenges, and work for the good of all of us.
  • Take Ownership and Raise the Bar demonstrates our responsibility to add value and make a difference, challenge the status quo and biases to make things better, foster innovative and creative solutions to drive impact, and explore new perspectives and embrace change.

 

Our Commitment to You

We're actively taking steps to make sure our culture, processes and practices promote equal opportunity for all. Join us!

We welcome and encourage all applicants to apply. We’d love the opportunity to consider you.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer

For more information about how we handle your personal data in connection with our recruiting processes, please refer to the Recruiting Privacy Notice on the “Privacy Notice” tab located at http://privacy.leggett.com


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