Stephen Self
Ocala
Summary
Dynamic operations leader with a proven track record at Fidelity Manufacturing, driving $10M+ monthly invoicing through strategic planning and Lean initiatives. Expert in cross-functional leadership and process improvement, fostering a culture of excellence and safety while enhancing team performance and operational efficiency. Committed to data-driven decision-making and customer-focused solutions.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Operations
Fidelity Manufacturing
07.2017 - 09.2025
- Assisted in developing operational strategies to enhance team efficiency and productivity.
- Provided strategic leadership across plants and service operations.
- Directed teams of supervisors and managers to drive $10M+ monthly invoicing.
- Monitored budget and utilized operational resources.
- Cultivated a culture around “Fidelity 4” (customer focus, first-class standards, friendly environment, forward-thinking solutions).
- Partnered with leadership to guide long-term planning, expansion, and continuous improvement.
- Drove operational excellence through Lean/CI efforts, workforce development, and system implementation.
- Oversaw cross-functional teams (production, shipping, quality, service, purchasing and inventory, etc.).
- Implemented process improvements that reduced downtime, scrap, or warranty claims.
- Developed reporting systems for KPIs (invoicing, on-time delivery, quality).
- Coordinated with vendors/customers on supply chain and quality issues.
- Supported major initiatives (new machinery, layout changes, digital twin modeling, etc.).
Production Manager
Fidelity Manufacturing
07.2011 - 07.2011
- Streamlined production processes to enhance operational efficiency and reduce downtime.
- Supervised team performance, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality standards.
- Implemented continuous improvement initiatives, resulting in more effective workflows and resource allocation.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to align production schedules with supply chain logistics.
- Oversaw cross-functional teams (production, shipping, service, etc.).
- Developed reporting systems for KPIs (invoicing, on-time delivery, quality).
- Coordinated with vendors/customers on supply chain and quality issues.
- Supported major initiatives (new machinery, layout changes, digital twin modeling, etc.).
Engineering Manager
JRS Custom Fabrication
07.2010 - 07.2011
- Led cross-functional teams to deliver engineering projects on time and within budget.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced team productivity and project quality.
- Developed and executed strategic plans for product development and innovation.
- Developed a cohesive team that was able to work well with other teams.
Production Department Manager
JRS Custom Fabrication
07.2006 - 07.2010
- Led production teams to optimize workflow and enhance operational efficiency.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced downtime and increased output consistency.
- Trained and mentored staff on best practices and safety protocols in production operations.
- Managed scheduling and resource allocation to meet production targets effectively.
- Managed day-to-day operations for multiple production lines/departments.
- Enforced safety, quality, and compliance standards on the shop floor.
- Trained and mentored frontline employees, improving retention and efficiency.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lake Weir High School
Ocala, FLSkills
- Leadership & People Development – team building, mentoring, succession planning
- Operations Management – scheduling, production planning, plant operations
- Process Improvement – Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma mindset, workflow optimization
- Strategic Planning – aligning operations with company vision and customer needs
- Quality & Compliance – ISO standards, audits, non-conformance reduction
- Leadership training of Supervisors, Managers and aspiring leaders
- Customer Focus – warranty responsiveness, service team leadership, client communication
- Cross-Functional Leadership – working with engineering, service, shipping, and vendors
- Project Management – machinery purchases, facility changes, technology implementations
- Data-Driven Decision Making – KPI dashboards, invoicing metrics, performance reporting
- Culture & Engagement – employee morale, safety culture, workplace improvement
- lean manufacturing and 6S
Timeline
Director of Operations
Fidelity Manufacturing
07.2017 - 09.2025
Production Manager
Fidelity Manufacturing
07.2011 - 07.2011
Engineering Manager
JRS Custom Fabrication
07.2010 - 07.2011
Production Department Manager
JRS Custom Fabrication
07.2006 - 07.2010
High School Diploma -
Lake Weir High School
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