General Manager - US Facility

The Opportunity: 

At Open Mind Developments, we are the creators of Pela Case—the world's first compostable phone case—and Lomi, a smart home composter that's revolutionizing waste. We're on a mission to leave the planet better than we found it, and our new U.S.-based facility will bring us one step closer to localized, sustainable manufacturing and fulfillment.

This position is based full-time in Phoenix, Arizona, where Open Mind Developments is launching its first U.S.-based manufacturing and fulfillment facility. To be eligible for this role, candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of application. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

We’re looking for a highly experienced, strategic, and hands-on General Manager to lead this new operation from the ground up. This individual will oversee all aspects of injection molding, printing, CNC routing,  fulfillment, and facility operations, while championing continuous improvement, lean principles, and a thriving workplace culture. You’ll work in close collaboration with our Kelowna-based team and Logistics leadership to build a future-ready facility aligned with our values and ambitions.

Responsibilities:

Operations Strategy & Leadership:

• Lead the full facility launch and scale up: facility & production equipment installation and commissioning, systems implementation, workflow design, and hiring of core teams
• Manage day-to-day operations across injection molding, print, CNC routing, fulfillment, inventory and maintenance, establishing and enforcing best practices for each operational function
• Define and track KPIs for safety, quality, throughput, cost control, and delivery performance
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing principles to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Ensure cross-functional collaboration to maintain a seamless flow of materials, production, and finished goods.
• Partner with the Kelowna GM to ensure cross-site consistency in quality standards, KPIs, capacity planning, and innovation rollout
• Monitor and manage budgets, capital expenditure and operational P&L performance
• Lead compliance with U.S. regulatory agencies including OSHA, EPA, and local permitting authorities; support external audits and reporting.
• Manage upward communication with executive stakeholders and cross-border coordination (Kelowna, Canadian HQ)

People and Culture:

• Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing team across manufacturing and fulfillment roles
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, sustainability and innovation
• Implement effective onboarding, training, and development programs
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, safety protocols, and environmental regulations
• Establish facility-level SOPs, safety programs, and emergency preparedness plans from the ground up (Supply chain, weather, equipment failure, etc).
• Shift planning and workforce scalability planning for temporary, seasonal and shift rotation design
• Build partnerships with local colleges and trade schools to establish talent pipelines

Production and Manufacturing Excellence:

• Oversee production planning and scheduling to ensure output meets demand without compromising quality or safety
• Ensure machines, tools, and facilities are setup & maintained for optimal operationsImplement and maintain rigorous quality control systems including mold/tooling design maintenance schedules
• Identify and drive operational improvements to boost throughput, reduce downtime, and minimize waste
• Continuously evaluate new automation technologies and equipment to support scaling

Fulfillment & Supply Chain Coordination:

• Direct and optimize the fulfillment process to ensure timely and accurate order processing, packing, and shipping
• Optimize inventory management, ensuring a continuous supply of raw materials for production and the efficient movement of finished goods
• Work closely with the VP of Operations to establish relationships with third-party shipping partners, optimizing shipping times, costs, and delivery performance
• Ensure that customer orders are fulfilled with the highest degree of accuracy and that any shipping issues are promptly resolved

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related discipline
• 10+ years in operations or general management within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership in injection moulding and printing operations.
• Experience managing direct-to-consumer fulfillment is a strong asset
• Demonstrated success in launching or scaling up a new facility or business unit
• Strong expertise in production planning, inventory management, and quality control.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and drive cross-functional collaboration
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to attract, develop and retain top talent
• Proficient in ERP/WMS systems and data-driven decision-making
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage budgets and optimize resource allocation
• Expertise in data-driven decision making, process improvement, and operational efficiency
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to lead complex projects and initiatives to successful completion
• Comfortable in a fast-moving, high-accountability environment

Commitment to Diversity 

Open Mind Developments are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We value unique perspectives and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE )If you require accommodations during the application process, please let us know. We are happy to provide support in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Compensation range - USD $100,000 - $150,000