Dedrone Director of Operations

Company Overview : Dedrone is the world’s most trusted smart airspace security company. Hundreds of commercial, government and military customers around the world rely on Dedrone’s comprehensive, command and control (C2) solution to protect against the persistent and escalating threat from drones while enabling “good” drones to fly. By leveraging AI/ML, Dedrone is the only solution that provides continuous, autonomous interrogation and verification of drones that enables both multi-sensor and multi-mitigation options onto a single fused "pane-of-glass". Whether on-premise / air-gapped or in the cloud, Dedrone customers can easily detect, track, identify, analyze, and mitigate drone threats.

Your Impact

The Director of Operations will be responsible for leading and optimizing all operational functions that support manufacturing success, including materials planning, production operations, logistics, and continuous improvement. You will drive cross-functional alignment to deliver high-quality products on time and within cost targets. As a key member of the leadership team, you will also play a critical role in developing long-term operational strategies, building high-performing teams, and scaling the organization to meet growing global demand.

What You’ll Do

Location: Mesa, AZ
Reports to: VP, Operations, Dedrone
Direct Reports: Cross-functional operational leaders (Manufacturing, Materials, and CI)

• Develop and lead operational strategies that ensure delivery, quality, safety, and cost objectives are achieved across all manufacturing and support functions
• Oversee day-to-day operations across manufacturing, logistics, materials, and operational excellence teams
• Own warehouse performance metrics including productivity, inventory accuracy, on-time delivery, and yield
• Create a culture of trust, accountability, and continuous improvement through effective change management and communication
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Hybrid Planning, and Quality to support rapid new product introductions and scale with agility
• Translate business objectives into clear operational plans with measurable milestones and KPI ownership
• Drive operational readiness for new products, technologies, and programs in partnership with global teams
• Identify bottlenecks or risk areas and implement process or systems-based solutions to address them
• Develop and mentor operations leaders and empower them with the tools and frameworks to drive high performance
• Ensure full compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements across all operational activities

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field; Master’s preferred
• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations leadership roles within manufacturing or high-tech environments
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional operations teams in fast-paced, high- growth organizations
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, supply chain strategy, materials planning, and lean methodologies
• Experience implementing and managing ERP/MES systems. D365 a plus.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, influence at all levels, and lead with a continuous improvement mindset
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills with a data-driven approach
• Inspirational leader who builds inclusive and high-trust teams through mentorship, transparency, and accountability

Benefits That Benefit You

• Competitive salary and 401k with employer match
• Discretionary paid time off
• Paid parental leave for all
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Fitness and wellness programs
• Learning and development support
• And yes, we have snacks in our offices

Benefits listed herein may vary depending on the nature of your employment and the location where you work

Don’t meet every single requirement? That's ok. At Dedrone, we Aim Far. We think big with a long-term view because we want to reinvent the world to be a safer, better place. We are also committed to building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they check every box in the job description. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification listed here, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all duties, responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The job description may change or be supplemented at any time in accordance with business needs and conditions.

Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment.

Dedrone is committed to the well-being and safety of its employees as well as Dedrone’s impact on the environment. All Dedrone employees must be aware of and committed to the appropriate environmental, health, and safety regulations, policies, and procedures. Dedrone employees are empowered to report safety concerns as they arise and activities potentially impacting the environment.

We are an equal opportunity employer that promotes justice, advances equity, values diversity and fosters inclusion. We’re committed to hiring the best talent — regardless of race, creed, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances — and empowering all of our employees so they can do their best work. If you have a disability or special need that requires assistance or accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please email .