This leader must be knowledgeable in custom-order, high-mix manufacturing and turnaround environments and have expertise in optimizing manufacturing processes focused on increasing throughput and output on the production floor.

Leadership:

• Set clear expectations, design practical processes and procedures that ensure accountability, and manage end-to-end manufacturing operations with a focus on production planning and execution.
• Demonstrate exceptional executive presence and communication skills, with the ability to translate operational realities into strategic insights for senior leadership, ownership, and board members.
• Passionate about coaching and training the operations team. Practical and effective at setting, evaluating, and inspiring individual and team goals that develop people and promote a positive “get-it-done” culture.
• Foster and promote a culture of continuous improvement (plan, do, check, adjust). A resourceful, figure-it-out mentality with a track record of creating successful operations without the resources of a large entity.
• Demonstrated ability to lead successful turnarounds in resource-constrained environments, leveraging creativity, lean principles, and cross-functional collaboration to drive measurable improvements in performance, culture, and profitability.
• Develop, monitor, and analyze key operational metrics to ensure production efficiency and quality. Keep teams accountable for KPIs, including preparation and presentation of operational and financial updates to leadership and ownership groups.
• Manage the development of both short- and long-term objectives and operating plans. Manage the financial performance of all operations to achieve the annual budget and profit plan.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including lean manufacturing and process optimization, to ensure cost-effectiveness and timely delivery without sacrificing quality or employee engagement.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices.

Management:

• Lead coordination and integration of efforts among operations, engineering, technology, and customer service to produce smoother workflow and more cost-effective business processes.
• Must be strategic and tactical — present on the shop floor and leading by example while also engaging in high-level strategic discussions. Establish and implement short- and long-range departmental goals, objectives, policies, and operating procedures.
• Communicate new directives, policies, or procedures to managers and supervisors; meet with the operations staff to explain changes, answer questions, and maintain positive morale.
• Energize and engage employees through their managers by ensuring they understand and can execute operational goals. Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Coach and mentor team members by providing timely, constructive performance improvement recommendations.
• Foster employee morale and engagement by building a positive, supportive work environment within a UAW environment.
• Proven change management skills, with a track record of building trust, inspiring teams, and driving cultural transformation during periods of uncertainty.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including union representatives, suppliers, customers, and ownership groups.
• Partner with HR to ensure the recruitment of top-tier talent.