Vice President of Operations

JR Automation is seeking a strategic, results-driven Vice President of Operations to lead and oversee all operational functions within our Detroit Division. This executive leader will be responsible for driving operational excellence across a highly technical, engineered-to-order automation business, ensuring the successful execution of complex automation projects from design through manufacturing, integration, and customer deployment.

• Develop and execute manufacturing and operational strategies aligned with company goals, growth objectives, and customer requirements.
• Provide overall leadership of the Detroit Division's manufacturing and operational functions, ensuring efficient execution of projects and production activities.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and profitability.
• Drive operational excellence initiatives focused on efficiency, scalability, customer satisfaction, and financial performance.

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and capacity management.
• Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency, productivity, and profitability targets are consistently achieved or exceeded.
• Implement and maintain robust quality control systems to ensure products and solutions meet or exceed customer expectations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Logistics, and Project Management teams to ensure seamless project execution and operational alignment.

• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and operational optimization.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives across the division.
• Leverage data analytics, emerging technologies, and automation tools to improve operational performance and decision-making.
• Stay current on industry trends, manufacturing technologies, and best practices to maintain a competitive advantage.

• Build, develop, and lead a high-performing operations organization focused on accountability, engagement, and results.
• Attract, retain, coach, and mentor operational leaders and manufacturing professionals.
• Foster a culture centered on safety, quality, innovation, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.
• Lead workforce planning, organizational development, and succession planning efforts within the division.

• Partner with Sales, Finance, Engineering, and Commercial leaders to align operational execution with customer demand, sales forecasts, and financial objectives.
• Support strategic business planning and contribute to divisional and enterprise-level decision making.
• Ensure alignment between operational priorities and overall business strategy.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, industry standards, and quality management systems.
• Maintain adherence to ISO certifications, quality standards, and customer-specific requirements.
• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture throughout all operations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations and practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field required.

• Master's degree (MBA or related discipline) preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive manufacturing and operations leadership experience, including significant experience leading large, complex operations teams.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in senior manufacturing or operations management roles.
• Experience within the automation industry strongly preferred.
• Automotive industry experience strongly preferred, including experience supporting OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, or advanced manufacturing operations.
• Proven success managing large-scale manufacturing operations within complex, highly regulated environments.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing operational strategies that drive business growth and operational excellence.

• Strong executive leadership capabilities with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop teams at all levels of the organization.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing principles, processes, and technologies.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems, including ISO 9001 and related standards.
• Experience utilizing ERP systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), operational reporting tools, and data analytics platforms.
• Demonstrated success leading operational transformations and change management initiatives.
• Strong project management and organizational leadership skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, cost management, and operational performance analysis.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and regulatory requirements within manufacturing environments.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Disclaimer: JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what’s possible to automate for tomorrow.

Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators.