Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Excellence with a Medical Device Co. – St. Louis, MO
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering medical device company in their search for a visionary Vice President of Manufacturing Excellence. Based in the vibrant hub of St. Louis, MO, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing within a company dedicated to improving patient outcomes globally.
Our client is at the forefront of medical technology, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and life-saving products. As the VP of Manufacturing Excellence, you will be the chief architect and champion of a world-class operational strategy, driving transformative change across all manufacturing sites. You will be responsible for creating a culture of continuous improvement, where efficiency, quality, and safety are paramount.
This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic one. You will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and work closely with the executive leadership team to align manufacturing capabilities with the company’s long-term growth objectives. You will be tasked with developing and deploying a comprehensive manufacturing excellence system, leveraging methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0 principles to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
The ideal candidate is a dynamic, results-oriented leader with a proven track record of leading large-scale manufacturing operations within the highly regulated medical device or pharmaceutical industries. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to deliver high-quality, cost-effective products to a global market, ultimately making a tangible difference in the lives of patients. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for operational perfection and a desire to lead a high-performing team in a mission-driven organization, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Excellence with a Medical Device Co. – St. Louis, MO
The VP of Manufacturing Excellence will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, focusing on strategic leadership, process optimization, and team development. Success in this role requires a hands-on yet strategic approach to building a sustainable culture of excellence.
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a global manufacturing excellence strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business goals. Establish a clear vision for the future of manufacturing operations, incorporating best practices and emerging technologies to create a competitive advantage.
Continuous Improvement Culture
Champion and embed a robust culture of continuous improvement across all manufacturing sites. Lead the deployment of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles, tools, and methodologies to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and eliminate waste.
Operational Performance Management
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for manufacturing operations, including safety, quality, delivery, inventory, and productivity (SQDIP). Implement rigorous data analysis and performance management systems to identify trends and drive targeted improvements.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Ensure all manufacturing processes and facilities operate in strict compliance with global regulatory standards, including FDA regulations, ISO 13485, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Partner closely with the Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs teams to prepare for and successfully navigate audits.
Technology & Automation Strategy
Evaluate and implement new technologies, automation, and digital manufacturing (Industry 4.0) solutions to enhance production capabilities, improve data integrity, and increase operational efficiency. Build the business case for capital investments in new equipment and systems.
Talent Development & Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber team of manufacturing leaders and continuous improvement professionals. Foster a collaborative and empowering environment that encourages innovation, problem-solving, and professional growth.
Supply Chain & S&OP Collaboration
Work in close collaboration with Supply Chain leadership to optimize the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process, improve demand forecasting, manage inventory levels, and ensure a resilient and efficient supply chain.
New Product Introduction (NPI)
Partner with R&D and Engineering teams to ensure the seamless transition of new products from development to full-scale manufacturing. Implement Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles early in the product lifecycle to ensure scalability and cost-effectiveness.
Global Site Harmonization
Drive standardization and harmonization of best practices, processes, and systems across the global network of manufacturing sites. Facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration between plants to accelerate improvement initiatives.
Financial & Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the annual operating budget for manufacturing excellence initiatives. Identify and execute cost-saving projects that deliver a significant return on investment and contribute to the company’s overall profitability.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Excellence with a Medical Device Co. – St. Louis, MO
We are seeking a seasoned executive with deep expertise in medical device manufacturing and a demonstrated history of transformative leadership. The qualifications below are essential for success in this critical role.
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related field) is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role (Director level or above) overseeing multiple manufacturing sites.
Industry Expertise
Significant and recent experience within the medical device industry is mandatory. Experience in pharmaceuticals or other highly regulated life sciences environments may also be considered.
Regulatory Knowledge
Expert-level understanding of the regulatory landscape for medical devices, including an in-depth knowledge of FDA’s Quality System Regulation (21 CFR Part 820), ISO 13485, and GMP standards.
Lean Six Sigma Mastery
Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt or Black Belt with extensive, hands-on experience leading large-scale deployments of continuous improvement programs that have resulted in quantifiable business impact.
Leadership & Influence
Proven ability to lead and inspire large, cross-functional teams. A demonstrated track record as a change agent, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the executive suite.
Strategic & Analytical Skills
Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Must be highly analytical and data-driven, with proficiency in using data to inform decisions and drive performance improvements.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial literacy with experience in P&L management, budgeting, and capital expenditure planning.
Communication Skills
Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills. Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences.
Location & Travel
The position is based in St. Louis, MO, and requires the ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 30% of the time to visit manufacturing sites and suppliers.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. As a key member of the executive team, you can expect:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful equity participation through stock options or restricted stock units (RSUs), aligning your success with the long-term growth of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with wellness programs and a Health Savings Account (HSA).
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences to keep you at the forefront of your field.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits designed to provide peace of mind.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. We encourage you to apply promptly as we are actively reviewing candidates. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit our medical device executive search practice page. JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
