Artur Ziaja
Bridgeview,Illinois
Summary
Demonstrates a strong ability to evaluate complex situations and implement effective solutions. Skilled in driving operational efficiency through strategic project management and cross-functional collaboration. Committed to enhancing processes and achieving organizational goals with a focus on sustainability and cost reduction.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Operational Planning and Development
PersonaizationMall.com LLC (800 Flowers)
Bolingbrook, IL
01.2016 - Current
- Managed end-to-end project execution including planning, budgeting, vendor coordination, permitting, and installation of equipment and infrastructure.
- Directed peak season readiness, including capacity planning, equipment installations, and layout optimization.
- Coordinated cross-functional initiatives with operations, engineering, finance, and external partners, facilitating collaboration and project alignment.
- Managed CapEx planning, budgeting, and execution aligned with business goals.
- Delivered multiple large-scale projects (up to $1.5M) on time and within budget, improving operational capacity and efficiency.
- Increased warehouse capacity by 1,000+ pallet locations and enabled daily shipping throughput of up to 100K units.
- Achieved consistent successful peak seasons with minimal downtime and no major operational disruptions.
- Led relocation and full operational setup of new facilities, including equipment, production, and logistics, with zero disruption.
- Streamlined operations through automation projects, equipment installations, and process redesign, resulting in improved efficiency.
- Oversaw preventive maintenance programs to ensure high equipment reliability and minimal downtime.
- Enforced safety, compliance, and training programs across facilities, enhancing workplace safety and regulatory adherence.
- Drove sustainability initiatives including energy optimization, vendor partnerships, and cost reduction programs.
- Reduced energy and utility costs by $200K+ annually through strategic vendor negotiations and efficiency programs.
- Generated additional savings of ~$280K (17%) in maintenance and operational budgets through process improvements.
- Led facility operations, maintenance, and capital projects across production, warehouse, and fulfillment environments.
Supply Chain Manager
Lovejoy, Inc.
Downers Grove, IL
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Evaluated and established safety stock levels, minimum quantity runs, and demand forecasts to optimize inventory management.
- Designed and implemented inventory reduction plans, aligning stock levels with demand to minimize excess.
- Took action to reduce costs by identifying and implementing strategies for greater efficiencies and improved resource quality.
- Manages projects to ensure successful delivery (on time, within budget) to establish clear goals and accountabilities.
- Managed a project against a plan and objectives to ensure commitments are met by monitoring, assessing, and resolving variances in budget, timing or quality of work.
- Assessed systems and procedures for effectiveness and efficiency.
- Manages, plans, coordinates, and directs quality control program.
Production Engineer / Director of Operations
Gifts For You, LLC
Downers Grove, IL
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Implemented new processes leading to 25% increase in sold goods.
- Streamlined merchandise picking process to enhance efficiency.
- Planned and coordinated the quality control program.
- Conducted product development for domestic and international markets.
- Developed new layouts and managed the transition to the new facility.
- Negotiated new pricing on packaging and production supplies.
- Assessed existing and potential systems and procedures.
- Conducted research, repairs, and maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
Production Manager
PersonalizationMall.com
Woodridge, IL
01.2006 - 01.2009
- Facilitated growth at PersonalizationMall from $5 million to $40 million in three years, contributing to cost-effectiveness and profitability.
- Automated production processes using new software, jigs, and nesting to enhance operational efficiency.
- Designed new facility production layout to optimize workflow and resource allocation.
- Provided each production department with essential tools to maximize performance.
- Worked very closely with each production lead and supervisor to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
- Researched new equipment to help with rapid growth.
- Negotiated new prices for all used supplies in production.
Production Manager
Personal Creations
Lemont, IL
01.2001 - 01.2006
- Managed 25-60 people at peak of production.
- Streamlined facility layout to enhance workflow and minimize production bottlenecks.
- Managed regular maintenance and upkeep of equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- Conducted comprehensive testing of equipment to ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Develop and test new items; assisted in moving production facility to new site.
- Managed financial strategies and initiatives, directly impacting company profits.
- Collaborated with CEO to evaluate Seattle-based company for acquisition, focusing on buyout procedures, asset procurement, and equipment redistribution.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Science - Computer Studies
Robert Morris University
Orland Park, IL05-2005
Skills
- Supply chain management
- Process optimization
- Project management
- Operational efficiency
- Quality assurance
- Cost reduction
- Capital budgeting
- Facilities management
- Facility operations
- Preventive maintenance
- Equipment installation
- Safety compliance
- Sustainability initiatives
- Innovation management
- Strategies and goals
- Decision-making
- Budget management
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Team leadership
- Crisis management
- Effective communication
- Visual communication
- Excel
- Word
- Process improvement
- Printer troubleshooting
- Crisis management
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Facilities management
References
Furnished Upon Request
Timeline
Director of Operational Planning and Development
PersonaizationMall.com LLC (800 Flowers)
01.2016 - Current
Supply Chain Manager
Lovejoy, Inc.
01.2012 - 01.2016
Production Engineer / Director of Operations
Gifts For You, LLC
01.2009 - 01.2012
Production Manager
PersonalizationMall.com
01.2006 - 01.2009
Production Manager
Personal Creations
01.2001 - 01.2006
Bachelor of Applied Science - Computer Studies
Robert Morris University