Vice President- Manufacturing Operations

About Our Client

Our client is a global leader in precision‑engineered components and systems serving the aerospace, defense, and advanced industrial sectors. With a longstanding heritage of manufacturing excellence, the company has built a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation.

Privately held and values‑driven, the organization operates multiple manufacturing and engineering facilities worldwide, supporting leading OEMs and tier‑one suppliers on some of the industry’s most advanced programs. Known for operational discipline and long‑term partnerships, it combines the stability of a mature enterprise with the agility of a modern, high‑growth manufacturer.

We are looking for a Vice President‑ Manufacturing Operations to join the leadership team and assume responsibility for multiple operating divisions within the company’s aerospace and defense portfolio.

This position offers exceptional growth potential for an accomplished manufacturing executive with a proven record of leading complex, multi‑site operations. This is an onsite role with regular travel required between manufacturing sites.

• Full P&L accountability for assigned business units, ensuring financial performance, cost efficiency, and margin optimization
• Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across multiple manufacturing sites
• Lead initiatives in production performance, supply chain management, and process optimization
• Ensure compliance with industry quality standards and regulatory requirements

• Develop and execute business strategies that align with enterprise objectives and support sustainable growth
• Identify opportunities for market expansion, new customer engagement, and strategic partnerships
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams in engineering, sales, and program management to accelerate innovation and delivery

• Build and develop high‑performing teams across multiple locations
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and servant leadership
• Promote talent development, succession readiness, and organizational capability building

• Deliver consistent, data‑driven performance against ambitious growth targets
• Maintain rigorous financial oversight and forecasting accuracy
• Present operational results and strategic insights to the executive team with clarity and impact

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (required)
• Advanced business education (MBA or equivalent) preferred

• Aerospace or defense manufacturing background required
• Deep understanding of precision machining, component manufacturing, or engineered systems
• Demonstrated success in highly regulated, quality‑driven production environments
• Experience managing multi‑site operations and diverse product portfolios

• Minimum 20 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations
• Proven success in senior operational or general management roles with full P&L responsibility

• Strong financial and analytical skills with a strategic mindset
• Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to translate operational metrics into strategic decisions

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience (range: $250,000-$300,000)
• Annual performance bonus
• Long‑term incentive or equity participation
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Paid time off, family leave, and relocation support

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and…