Director of Factory Operations

About the role

Essense Designs, a global leader in bridal fashion, is seeking a Director of Factory Operations to steer the performance and optimisation of its worldwide factory network. This senior position will shape strategy, drive technology adoption, and ensure operational excellence across all manufacturing partners.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a global factory operations strategy aligned with business objectives and financial targets.
• Integrate AI tools and technology to automate workflows, reduce inefficiencies, and foster a culture of AI adoption.
• Maintain senior relationships with factory partners, reviewing performance against KPIs such as quality, cost, delivery, and compliance.
• Lead commercial strategy, including pricing, negotiation, and supplier agreements.
• Oversee seasonal production timelines, collection launches, and critical milestone delivery.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, escalating complex issues beyond business‑as‑usual.
• Drive factory sourcing strategy, evaluating and onboarding new partners.
• Implement continuous improvements in processes, standards, and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with ethical, regulatory, and brand standards across all factories.
• Provide reporting, insights, and recommendations to executive leadership.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Factory Operations team while travelling internationally to support relationships and sourcing initiatives.

Required profile

• University‑level qualification in fashion, supply chain, industrial engineering or a related field.
• Extensive experience leading factory or manufacturing operations at a global scale.
• Proven track record of strategic planning, KPI management, and commercial negotiation.
• Strong understanding of ethical and regulatory standards in apparel manufacturing.
• Ability to travel internationally and work across multiple time zones.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to join an international industry leader in bridal fashion.
• Creative and collaborative culture that values teamwork, sustainability, and innovation.
• Recognition and rewards for excellence, loyalty, and innovative contributions.
• Modern workplace environment that supports talent development and growth.