Sr. Director, IT - Emerging Technology

Novolex is a leader in packaging innovation, choice and sustainability. We manufacture products in paper, plastic and sustainable materials for the food, retail, health and industrial markets.

• $175,000 to $200,000 yearly base salary plus bonus opportunity.
• Wellness rewards to fund your HRA or HSA
• Full Medical Benefit options starting the following month after hire.
• Paid holidays, time off, parental and other leaves
• Financial protection benefits such as life, AD&D and disability insurance, and 401(k) Plan with employer matching contributions
• Education Support (for example, tuition reimbursement, Chairman's Scholarship, 529 College Savings Plan)
• Broad Based Employee Award Program-value sharing plan for all employees with one year of service
• Employee Assistance Program and much more!

*The range provided is based on cost of living/geography and what we believe is reasonable in the market at the time of posting. This role may be eligible for annual bonus and annual merit increase, as well as long term compensation. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors.

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.

Responsible for identifying, developing, and deploying cutting-edge technologies-particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Industrial IoT, and automation-to drive operational excellence, innovation, and competitive advantage. The Director will lead a cross-functional team focused on integrating emerging technologies into manufacturing processes, supply chain operations, and enterprise systems. This role requires a deep understanding of manufacturing environments, digital transformation, and the ability to translate business needs into scalable technology solutions.

Technology Strategy & Leadership

• Define and execute the emerging technology roadmap aligned with manufacturing and enterprise goals. Lead the evaluation, piloting, and implementation of technologies such as AI/ML, digital twins, robotics, and smart factory solutions. Build and lead a high-performing team of engineers, architects, and innovation specialists.

Manufacturing Innovation

• Drive adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies to improve productivity, quality, and agility. Implement predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and process automation solutions. Collaborate with plant operations to digitize and optimize production workflows.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with IT, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of new technologies. Work closely with Data & Analytics to leverage insights for continuous improvement. Ensure alignment with enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, and compliance standards

Governance & Risk Management

• Establish frameworks for responsible AI use, data governance, and technology risk management. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, including safety, data privacy, and environmental standards.

External Engagement & Trend Monitoring

• Build relationships with technology vendors, research institutions, and industry consortia. Stay ahead of emerging trends in manufacturing technology and assess their relevance to the business. Represent the company at industry events and forums.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in technology leadership roles, with a focus on manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Proven success in deploying emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, or automation in a production setting.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing systems (MES, SCADA, PLCs) and enterprise platforms (ERP, cloud).
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex technology programs.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrated ability to drive innovation, manage change, and deliver measurable business outcomes.

Benefits

With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance (including Telehealth options) as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.

Community Engagement

At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.

Training and Development

We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through Novolex University. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program, and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.

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