Mandi Koziol
Mandi Koziol is an accomplished operations leader with over 15 years of experience in manufacturing and supply chain management. Currently serving as Operations Manager at XFS Global, she oversees cross-functional teams spanning production, procurement, engineering, quality assurance, and service installation. Mandi plays a critical role in the end-to-end delivery of expeditionary and semi-permanent shelter systems that support U.S. and allied military programs. Her work is rooted in Lean methodology and continuous improvement, with a focus on aligning operational execution with strategic priorities.
Before joining XFS Global, Mandi held multiple leadership roles at Oak Hall Industries, where she rose from Assistant Plant Manager to Director of Manufacturing. Her strengths in data analysis, KPI development, and team building enabled her to implement scalable systems and boost performance across complex production environments. Mandi holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Operations Management and Analysis and an MBA from the University of Arizona Global Campus. Certified in Lean Six Sigma, she is passionate about driving process efficiency, fostering collaboration, and delivering results that matter.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Lean Six Sigma White Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
• Train the Trainer Certification
• Certified Forklift Trainer
• Certified Pharmacy Technician
• The University of Arizona Global Campus- M.B.A.
• The University of Arizona Global Campus- B.A.
• Irrevarant warriors
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to working my way up from the warehouse—learning every aspect of manufacturing firsthand, from screen printing to sewing—which gave me the hands-on experience to lead effectively. Combined with my education and determination, I was able to turn around a challenging operation and build a strong, profitable team supporting servicemen and women.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is not to spend too much time looking in the rearview mirror, because focusing on the past can hold you back from future opportunities.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating the impact of tariffs and funding delays, which affect our military structure customers. However, the shift toward buying American levels the playing field, and our company’s ownership of two fabric companies gives us a competitive advantage.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both work and personal life are hard work, discipline, and active listening.