Job Description

Director of Operations

L&L Candle Company – Brea, CA

L&L Candle Company, headquartered in Brea, CA, is the world’s leading producer of premium LED flameless candles. We are dedicated to creating exceptionally realistic and high-quality flameless candles for our global customers.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Operations to lead our Operations teams. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, this key leadership role manages a team and is accountable for driving efficiency, operational excellence, and seamless communication between our U.S. headquarters and third-party factory partners overseas.

This position requires a hands-on, proactive leader with strong cross-functional skills and a deep understanding of contract manufacturing, customs compliance (import), e-commerce, and product development. Bilingual fluency in Mandarin Chinese is preferred, as well as the flexibility to work occasional evenings to support communication with our Asia-based suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take a hands-on approach to overseeing day-to-day operations and directly supervise the Operations team to ensure all tasks are executed efficiently and delivered on time.
• Actively participate in and lead cross-functional initiatives spanning product development, manufacturing, logistics, and customer fulfillment to support company goals.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the U.S. office and our third-party factory partners in China, ensuring clear communication and coordination across time zones.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational processes, systems, and policies to drive efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor timelines from product sampling through production and delivery, ensuring alignment with customer expectations and company standards.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and negotiations, with a focus on quality control and cost management.
• Collaborate with the Sales and Accounting teams to evaluate profitability and support margin analysis.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks that could impact production schedules and quality.
• Provide regular updates to the VP of Operations on operational statuses, performance, and key metrics.
• Cultivate a collaborative, accountable, and results-driven team environment.

Qualifications:

• The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of both high-level planning and tactical execution.
• 6+ years of experience in Operations or a similar leadership role.
• Prior experience supervising Operations Managers or operational teams.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (NetSuite strongly preferred) and advanced Excel skills.
• Bilingual fluency in Mandarin Chinese is preferred.
• Proven track record in contract manufacturing and supplier management, particularly in Asia.
• Strong background in e-commerce operations and accounting.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Willingness to work flexible hours (including some nights) to effectively communicate with international partners.
• Occasional travel (up to 10%) may be required.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Job Type: Full-time
• Salary Range: $100,000 - $130,000 per year (DOE)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (premium is 100% company paid)
• Disability and life insurance (premium is 100% company paid)
• Vacation and holiday pay
• 401(k) plan

Additional Information:

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Some evenings as needed to accommodate communication with overseas partners

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree (Preferred)

Experience:

• Operations management: 6+ years (Required)

Language:

• Mandarin Chinese fluency preferred, both spoken and written (Preferred)

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