Vice President of Operations

RHH202320

Composites / Plastics

THE COMPANY

Our client is one of the nation’s fastest-growing manufacturing companies. They are a privately held OEM supplier in the composites/plastics industry. Headquartered in Southeast Michigan with six business units across multiple locations and states, they have over 600,000 square feet of production space and 400+ employees. With a diverse product line spanning multiple industries, the company culture is entrepreneurial and growth-minded. They have a commitment to accountability, strong ethics and standards, a “do what it takes” mentality, and a drive to build exceptional customer relationships.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Vice President of Operations will partner with the head of manufacturing and other leaders and be pivotal in ensuring the company’s operational and financial success, adapting to the dynamic nature of the composites/plastics industry, and consistently delivering on the promise of quality and innovation. This role will oversee all production and operational processes, ensuring they align with the company’s strategic goals, dedication to customer satisfaction, and growth ambitions. The ideal candidate is a “blue-collar executive,” who will bring a wealth of experience in the composites/plastics industry, and demonstrate a strong ability to lead diverse teams, create and implement standardized operational processes and systems, optimize through-put on the manufacturing floor, and foster a culture of operational excellence.

JOB DEFINITION

SKILLS

This leader must be highly knowledgeable in low to medium-volume composites/plastics manufacturing and have expertise in optimizing manufacturing processes focused on increasing the throughput and outputs on the production floor.

Manage and oversee the end-to-end manufacturing operations.
Create and implement initiatives that drive optimization and improvements in the performance of the overall operations throughput and output, focused production planning and execution.
Promote and implement innovative solutions that drive and prepare for operational growth and optimization.
Identify, recommend, and implement new processes, technologies, and systems to improve and streamline organizational processes and use of labor, resources, and materials.
Implement and refine operational strategies and organizational design that align with the company’s long-term goals and vision.
Develop, monitor, and analyze key operational metrics, ensuring efficiency and quality in production. Keep teams accountable for KPIs.
Direct the development of both short- and long-term objectives, policies, budgets, and operating plans for the plants. Managing the financial performance of all operations towards the successful achievement of the annual budget and profit plan.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely delivery.
Manage continuous improvement initiatives making each facility as efficient and automated as possible.
Liaise with other department heads to ensure that the operational activities are aligned with the sales, marketing, engineering, and R&D functions.
Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with external partners, including customers, suppliers, and industry contacts.
Work to attain standardization and ISO certification across all facilities.
Integrate acquisitions successfully.

Leadership and Management:

Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
Energize and engage employees through their managers by ensuring they understand and can execute operational fulfillment goals.
Advise members of the leadership team on the operational implications of decisions and opportunities.
Develop and implement effective training programs to enhance employee skills and performance.
Ensure clear communication of company objectives and operational strategies to all relevant stakeholders.
Address and resolve any operational issues or conflicts that may arise.
Partner with HR to ensure the recruitment of top-tier talent and foster a positive work environment.
Coach and mentor team members.
Provide constructive and timely performance evaluations.

BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 10 years of experience in the plastics/composite industry, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
Demonstrable experience in process improvement, with a proven track record of optimizing operations and driving growth.
In-depth knowledge of the composites/plastics industry, including its challenges, trends, and innovations.
Experience in large manufacturing facilities.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
Proficiency in relevant software tools and applications/ERP systems.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Ability to handle high-pressure situations with adaptability, poise, and confidence.
Effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
Innovative mindset with a forward-thinking approach.
Adaptability to changing industry landscapes and market demands.
Strong organizational and multitasking capabilities.
A sense of humor.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, or an industry-related field. An MBA or relevant advanced degree is preferred.

All inquiries should be emailed to:

katescott@hohauser.com

If you have these qualifications and are looking for a challenging career, please submit your Resume using the button below.

Eric Hohauser

President

Kate Scott

Director, Executive Recruitment