Spectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance · 4 weeks ago
Director of Operations, Removeables
Santa Ana, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$160K/yr - $180K/yr
10+ years expSpectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance (SKDLA) is a nationally recognized leader in restorative dentistry, passionate about helping people smile with confidence. As the Business Unit Director for Removables, you will serve as both the strategic and operational leader for the Removables business unit, focusing on digital process optimization and operational excellence.
Medical Device
Responsibilities
Own full P&L and KPI performance for assigned business units, including financial results, customer satisfaction, quality, and delivery
Translate SKDLA’s strategic goals into actionable business unit roadmaps, ensuring alignment with company-wide initiatives
Lead operational planning, forecasting, and budgeting to support growth, efficiency, and profitability
Partner with Production, Engineering, Digital Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to optimize capacity, workflow, and labor utilization across locations
Champion the integration of digital manufacturing technologies, automation, and data systems (MES, ERP, analytics) to drive transparency and scalability
Drive an EXCEPTIONAL Customer Experience for our doctors and patients at every touchpoint
Serve as the operations liaison for key customer relationships and commercial partnerships within your business unit
Collaborate with the Commercial and Sales teams to identify new service opportunities and strengthen SKDLA’s market position
Oversee case management and escalation processes to ensure on-time delivery, accuracy, and outstanding quality
Conduct and executive Root Cause Corrective Action in the pursuit of perfection
Use customer insights and data analytics to anticipate needs, improve responsiveness, and inform future investment decisions
Lead and develop a high-performing, multidisciplinary team — setting clear goals, providing ongoing coaching, and building leadership depth
Cultivate a culture of accountability, craftsmanship, and collaboration across all levels of the business unit
Partner with HR to implement training, performance management, and career progression programs that attract and retain top talent
Build visual management and KPI dashboards that empower teams to make data-informed decisions
Partner closely with the Engineering, Operational Excellence and Quality Teams to deploy Continuous Improvement, Lean, and Six Sigma initiatives to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance productivity
Standardize best practices across business units and SKDLA sites to ensure consistent, scalable performance
Collaborate with Facilities, Maintenance, and EHS leaders to sustain a safe, efficient, and compliant work environment
Champion problem-solving and A3 thinking across teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
Partner with the Digital Manufacturing, Quality, and Technology teams to ensure seamless new product introductions and digital workflow integration
Contribute to the strategic planning of capital investments, facility expansions, and automation initiatives
Actively engage with executive leadership on quarterly and annual business reviews, sharing insights and leading improvement actions
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or Operations Management (MBA or advanced degree preferred)
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, operations, or business unit management — preferably in medical device, contract manufacturing or precision manufacturing industries
Proven track record leading full P&L ownership, scaling teams, and driving transformation in complex operational environments
Strong understanding of production planning, Lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies
Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to lead through influence
Hands-on, “builder” mindset — equally comfortable driving strategy and rolling up your sleeves to get results
Experience with digital manufacturing systems, 3D printing, milling, or scanning technologies
Ability to leverage the deep dental knowledge of our team to develop scalable processes and approaches that achieve scale AND superior products
Intellectually curious, decisive, and energized by challenges
Strong ability to prioritize, communicate, and execute in dynamic settings
Collaborative and empathetic leadership style that inspires trust, engagement, and performance
Balances strategic foresight with disciplined operational execution
Preferred
Familiarity with ERP/MES platforms and performance analytics tools preferred (Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
Exposure to multi-site leadership or rapid growth environments requiring scalable systems and processes preferred
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
401(k) plan with an employer match
Company
Spectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance
Spectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance (SKDLA) is a cooperative network of full-service dental laboratories that have come together to provide high-quality products, dental implant solutions, and world-class esthetics.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Edwin Fajardo
Founder
Company data provided by crunchbase