VP of Manufacturing

As a key member of the local executive management team, the VP of Manufacturing holds primary operational control of Recip and Rotary production operations, manufacturing engineering, production scheduling, and facility maintenance at the Bay Minette plant. Within the delegated authority from the General Manager and corporate policies, this role leads a team comprising 6 managers and production supervisors, overseeing approximately 80 to 90 hourly and salaried employees. The VP of Manufacturing champions a collaborative culture that fosters innovation, efficiency, and high performance.

• Develop and implement effective short- and long-term manufacturing strategies, objectives, and goals that support and enhance the overall operating plan of the organization.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Sales, and Engineering departments to integrate manufacturability and lean manufacturing techniques for new product introduction, maximizing the use of available technology and personnel skills to prevent resource duplication.
• Manage production flow for assigned products and components, focusing on minimizing cycle times and controlling inventory to optimal levels.
• Enhance labor efficiency and utilization through the introduction and continuous improvement of tools, methods, processes, plant layout, material handling systems, equipment, and facilities.
• Establish and administer programs to maintain and improve plant infrastructure, including buildings, equipment, and services, with forward-looking planning and investment.
• Partner with the SHEQ Manager to develop, implement, and maintain quality control and assurance systems, balancing prevention and failure costs effectively.
• Oversee manufacturing, assembly, and testing operations to meet agreed quality standards, schedules, and cost targets.
• Lead investment initiatives to advance operations with measurable and tangible returns, ensuring the plant operates at a world-class level.
• Maintain superior customer service by ensuring timely availability and delivery of components and finished products.
• Facilitate cross-functional communication to align production plans and schedules with overall business objectives.
• Document manufacturing processes and tooling thoroughly to mitigate knowledge loss due to turnover and preserve operational consistency.
• Guide labor relations and employee morale, promoting a positive company culture and adhering to legal and pragmatic standards.
• Coordinate and structure employee training to optimize plant resource utilization and employee development.
• Champion workplace safety by leading safety, housekeeping, and loss prevention programs, serving as the 5S Champion to embed behaviors supporting a safe and efficient work environment.
• Partner with Human Resources to recruit, train, and develop personnel, fostering a framework for continued growth and talent retention within the operation.
• Integrate individual and departmental objectives to ensure consistent performance evaluation and equitable salary actions.

This position reports directly to the General Manager and is accountable for the successful execution of manufacturing operations and strategy. While delegation of tasks and authority is expected within the department, the VP of Manufacturing retains overall responsibility for results and operational performance.

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is strongly preferred, though proven, results-driven experience may substitute for formal education.
• Advanced graduate degrees such as an MBA are desirable and advantageous.
• 8 to 10 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, with a proven track record of operational leadership and people management.

• Comprehensive Lean Manufacturing training and experience applying lean principles to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Strong motivational skills with the ability to effectively lead and collaborate within diverse teams.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills capable of influencing all levels of the organization.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to analyze operations broadly and drive decisions that align with organizational goals.
• Advanced data analytics skills and experience interpreting KPIs and performance trends to support informed decision-making.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, collaboration, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrates empathy and fairness when enforcing company policies and strategic directions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PowerBI.
• Experience or knowledge of ERP systems, particularly BPCS (AS400), is a plus.
• Comfortable and skilled at presenting complex data and operational insights to senior executive management.

Direct responsibility for the Recip and Rotary production operations, Methods and Manufacturing Engineering, and Maintenance departments.

This role requires regular movement around the manufacturing facility, including standing and walking. Work is conducted in both office and plant settings. Safety glasses and steel-toed shoes must be worn at all times when on the shop floor to ensure personal protection.