Role Overview for Vice President of Operations | Injection Molding Manufacturer | Chicago, IL
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a transformative Vice President of Operations for a premier, technology-driven injection molding manufacturer based in the greater Chicago, IL area. Our client is a well-established leader in providing high-precision, custom injection molded components to a diverse range of industries, including automotive, medical, consumer electronics, and industrial goods. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, they are poised for significant growth and are seeking a world-class operations leader to help steer their future.
The Vice President of Operations is a critical executive leadership position, reporting directly to the President and CEO. This role will serve as the strategic and tactical leader for all aspects of the company’s multi-site manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for providing the leadership, management, and vision necessary to ensure that the company has the proper operational controls, administrative and reporting procedures, and people systems in place to effectively grow the organization and to ensure financial strength and operating efficiency. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on, yet strategic leader with a profound understanding of the injection molding industry and a proven track record of driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and scaling manufacturing capabilities. You will be the driving force behind optimizing production, enhancing quality, managing a complex supply chain, and championing a culture of safety and accountability across the entire organization. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on a thriving company, shaping its operational backbone and contributing directly to its long-term success and market leadership.
Key Responsibilities of Vice President of Operations | Injection Molding Manufacturer | Chicago, IL
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the executive team to develop and implement the company’s strategic plan. Translate corporate strategy into actionable operational goals, policies, and initiatives that drive performance and growth. Lead long-range operational planning, including capacity planning, technology adoption, and facility expansion.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. Implement and sustain best-in-class operational methodologies, including lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, 5S, and other CI tools. Drive initiatives to reduce waste, improve process flow, increase productivity, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Financial & P&L Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for all manufacturing operations. Develop, manage, and control the annual operations budget, ensuring all financial targets are met or exceeded. Analyze operational data and financial statements to identify areas for cost reduction and profitability improvement. Lead capital expenditure planning and justification for new equipment, technology, and facility upgrades.
Production & Manufacturing Oversight
Direct and oversee all production activities to ensure that products are manufactured on schedule, within budget, and according to the highest quality standards. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery (OTD), scrap rates, machine uptime, and labor efficiency, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
Supply Chain & Materials Management
Provide strategic leadership for the entire supply chain function, including procurement, inventory management, logistics, and supplier relations. Develop and maintain strong partnerships with key suppliers to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply of raw materials and components. Optimize inventory levels to support production needs while minimizing carrying costs.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Uphold and enhance the company’s Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with industry standards such as ISO 9001 and IATF 16949. Foster a ‘quality-first’ mindset across all operational teams. Ensure all products consistently meet or exceed customer specifications and expectations.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations leadership team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, open communication, and employee engagement. Implement robust training and development programs to build organizational capability and create a pipeline of future leaders.
Health, Safety, & Environmental (HSE)
Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring the highest standards of workplace safety are maintained at all times. Guarantee full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA and environmental standards. Proactively lead initiatives to minimize workplace accidents and environmental impact.
Technology & Automation Integration
Stay abreast of emerging technologies, automation, and Industry 4.0 trends within the injection molding industry. Identify and champion the adoption of new systems and equipment that can drive significant improvements in efficiency, quality, and capability.
Requirements for the Vice President of Operations | Injection Molding Manufacturer | Chicago, IL
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in a complex manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior plant or multi-site operational leadership role (e.g., Director of Operations, VP of Manufacturing).
Industry-Specific Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience in the plastics industry, specifically with high-volume, precision injection molding processes, is mandatory. Experience with scientific molding principles, robotics/automation, and advanced tooling is highly desirable.
Methodology Proficiency
Proven expertise in implementing and leading continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma. A Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is a significant asset.
Financial Acumen
Strong business and financial acumen with a proven track record of P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and capital project justification in a manufacturing context.
Leadership Qualities
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. A demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and motivate large, diverse teams to achieve ambitious goals. A proven change agent who can drive cultural transformation and build a cohesive, high-performance organization.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think strategically and translate high-level corporate vision into tactical, executable plans. Must be able to balance long-term strategic objectives with short-term operational demands.
Problem-Solving Skills
Superior analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Location
Must be currently located in or willing to relocate to the greater Chicago, IL metropolitan area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- A competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
- A significant annual performance-based bonus and long-term incentive plan (LTIP).
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your family.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Substantial paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
- Opportunities for continued professional development and executive education.
- The ability to hold a key leadership role and make a lasting, tangible impact on the future of a dynamic and growing industry leader.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. We are seeking a visionary operations leader who is ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role. If you possess the required experience, leadership qualities, and a deep passion for operational excellence within the injection molding industry, we strongly encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter that outlines your specific qualifications and highlights your achievements in driving operational transformation. For more information on our executive search expertise in this sector, please visit our Plastics & Packaging Executive Recruiters practice area. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
