Temporary Restructuring and Operations Director

Drive a high-impact turnaround with immediate business visibility Clear progression towards a long-term executive role About Our Client Industrial manufacturing group operating in the footwear industry, with international operations and a multi-site production footprint across Italy and abroad, currently undergoing a significant industrial restructuring and operational repositioning. Job Description The role will personally lead the operational and industrial turnaround, acting across production structure, supply chain, organisation and commercial coordination. This position requires a strong hands-on approach, fast decision-making and on-the-ground presence. The assignment is initially temporary, with a potential transition into a permanent role upon completion of the plan. Operations & Industrial Restructuring Analyse and redesign the production footprint (Italy / abroad) Optimise industrial processes and supply chain Realign fixed cost base to current volumes Define and implement operational KPIs and control systems Lead organisational restructuring and workforce reductions Drive strategic evaluations on industrial footprint Organisation & Governance Review and strengthen the organisational structure Introduce managerial models into less structured environments Define accountability, delegation levels and decision-making processes Commercial Operational Oversight Coordinate and refocus the sales organisation Set priorities across markets, customers and channels Integrate wholesale, retail and e-commerce models Ensure alignment with product and merchandising functions Stakeholder Management Act as primary interface with ownership and advisor Operate effectively in high-pressure, time-constrained environments Provide structured reporting on turnaround progress The Successful Applicant Proven experience in industrial turnarounds and restructuring Background in roles such as: Operations Director Plant Director Restructuring / Turnaround Manager Experience in complex, multi-site manufacturing environments Strong track record in: deep organisational restructuring cost reduction and workforce optimisation industrial footprint redesign Pragmatic, execution-driven leadership style Ability to operate in unstructured and complex environments Technical background preferred What’s on Offer Contract: Temporary Manager (fixed-term executive or freelance) Compensation: approx. €200K Potential transition into a long-term leadership role