Sr. Director, Innovation and Strategic Operations (Hybrid Work Schedule)

See What We’re All About

As the fastest-growing distributor of restaurant equipment, HVAC and residential appliance parts, we like to do things a little differently. First, you need to understand and demonstrate our Core Values with safety being your first priority. That’s key. But we’re also looking for unique enthusiasm, high integrity, courage to embrace change…and if you know a few jokes, that puts you on the top of our list!

Do you have a genius-level knowledge of original equipment manufacturer parts? If not, no problem! We’re more interested in passionate people with fresh ideas from different backgrounds. That’s what keeps us at the top of our game. We’re proud that our workplace has been recognized for its growth and innovation on the Inc. 5000 list 15 years in a row and the Crain’s Fast 50 list ten times. We are honored to be voted by our Chicagoland team as a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace for the last four years.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, go above and beyond and put your ambition to work, all while having some fun, let’s chat – Apply Today!

Red Lightning Group

Red Lightning Group is an innovation hub operating within Parts Town Unlimited. We’re focused on bringing groundbreaking digital solutions to market, across all divisions. As part of RLG, you will be part of developing game-changing products and services. Our goal is to deliver the future, and we’re moving fast to expand our team and make an impact.

Perks

• Parts Town Pride – check out our virtual tour and culture!
• Hybrid Work schedule
• Team member appreciation events and recognition programs
• Volunteer opportunities
• Monthly IT stipend
• Casual dress code
• On-demand pay options: Access your pay as you earn it, to cover unexpected or even everyday expenses
• All the traditional benefits like health insurance, 401k/401k match, employee assistance programs and time away – don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

The Job at a Glance

As the Sr. Director, Innovation and Strategic Operations at Red Lightning, you will be a key driver of our innovation and strategic initiatives, guiding cross-functional teams and ensuring alignment across the organization. This role is central to harmonizing processes, enhancing internal communications, and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. By leveraging data, analytics, and strong project management skills, you will identify and implement strategies to boost operational efficiency, streamline project execution, and advance organizational goals. You will also serve as a mentor and guide to team members, cultivating relationships with stakeholders across Red Lightning and its broader network to foster engagement, transparency, and impactful results.

A Typical Day

• Lead and manage the innovation platform, aligning ideas with Red Lightning’s strategic goals and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration across the organization.
• Identify, prioritize, and execute process improvements and strategic initiatives, translating them into actionable project plans to drive organizational performance.
• Plan and oversee events (e.g., hackathons, workshops) to stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving, while promoting cross-functional collaboration.
• Champion the design thinking process, guiding teams to develop customer-focused solutions and align efforts with broader organizational objectives.
• Oversee internal processes, strategies, and communications to ensure alignment and transparency, supporting innovation across departments.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, facilitating strategic alignment and streamlining efforts for maximum efficiency.
• Leverage data and analytics to inform decision-making and assess project and organizational performance.
• Lead organizational development initiatives to enhance team performance, satisfaction, and productivity, while informally managing team members across functions.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency, governance, and overall organizational effectiveness.
• Mentor and guide team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

To Land This Opportunity

• You possess 6+ years’ experience in a role managing customer facing, value added projects; and / or driving process improvement initiatives
• You have great organizational skills, enjoy team collaboration, and have the ability to manage complex cross functional projects with many stakeholders
• You have a passion for innovation and “bringing innovative ideas to life.”
• You thrive in a fast-paced environment and adapt well to change
• You are passionate about driving projects that support the growth of our business!
• You have expertise in implementing and managing the design thinking process to drive customer-focused innovation
• You obtain strong analytical skills - ability to dig through data, draw conclusions and make recommendations

About Your Future Team

We're a team fueled by curiosity and always ready to explore the next big idea, whether it's a breakthrough in AI or a quirky new lunch recipe! We believe in keeping things fun while driving innovation forward, embracing both brainstorming and birthday celebrations with equal enthusiasm. If you love solving puzzles, sharing ideas, and maybe even nerding out over the latest tech trends, you're going to fit right in!

Parts Town welcomes diversity and as an equal opportunity employer all qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.