Role Overview for Chief Information Officer (CIO) with an Advanced Manufacturing Firm – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, has been exclusively retained to identify a transformative Chief Information Officer (CIO) for our client, a pioneering and market-leading advanced manufacturing firm headquartered in the vibrant industrial hub of Detroit, MI. This is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary technology executive to join a dynamic leadership team and steer the company through its next phase of technological evolution and growth. Our client is at the forefront of their industry, leveraging cutting-edge technology to redefine manufacturing processes, enhance product quality, and drive operational excellence. The company is committed to innovation and is seeking a CIO who shares this passion and can architect a future-proof technology landscape.
As the CIO, you will be a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You will be the principal architect and executor of the company’s global information technology and digital strategy. This role extends far beyond traditional IT management; it demands a strategic business partner who can harness the power of technology to create a distinct competitive advantage. You will be responsible for envisioning, developing, and implementing robust, scalable, and secure technology solutions that align seamlessly with the company’s strategic objectives. This includes leading the charge on digital transformation initiatives, championing the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles, and fostering a data-driven culture across the entire organization. The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the manufacturing ecosystem, capable of translating complex technological concepts into tangible business value and inspiring a global team to achieve excellence.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Information Officer (CIO) with an Advanced Manufacturing Firm – Detroit, MI
Strategic Vision & Executive Leadership
Develop and articulate a clear, compelling vision for the future of technology within the organization. Create and execute a multi-year IT and digital roadmap that supports long-term business goals, drives innovation, and enhances shareholder value. Serve as a key strategic advisor to the CEO, Board of Directors, and executive peers on all technology-related matters.
Digital Transformation & Innovation
Spearhead the company’s digital transformation journey. Identify, evaluate, and champion emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), automation, and predictive analytics to optimize manufacturing processes, improve supply chain efficiency, and create ‘smart factory’ environments.
IT Operations & Infrastructure Excellence
Oversee all aspects of IT infrastructure and operations to ensure the reliability, availability, scalability, and performance of mission-critical systems. This includes managing data centers, cloud services (public, private, hybrid), network architecture, and end-user computing. Implement ITIL best practices for service delivery and support.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Architect and maintain a comprehensive, enterprise-wide cybersecurity program to protect the company’s intellectual property, sensitive data, and critical infrastructure from evolving threats. Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations and data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, NIST). Lead incident response planning and execution.
Enterprise Systems & Applications
Direct the strategy, implementation, and management of core enterprise applications, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms. Ensure these systems are optimized, integrated, and effectively support business processes.
Data Governance & Advanced Analytics
Establish and enforce a robust data governance framework to ensure data quality, integrity, and accessibility. Build and lead a business intelligence and data analytics capability that transforms raw data into actionable insights, enabling data-driven decision-making across all business functions from the shop floor to the executive suite.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, global IT organization. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Attract and retain top-tier technology talent and build a clear succession plan for key roles within the IT department.
Financial & Vendor Management
Develop and manage the annual IT operating and capital budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and a strong return on technology investments. Lead contract negotiations and manage strategic relationships with technology vendors, service providers, and consulting partners to ensure maximum value and performance.
Requirements for the Chief Information Officer (CIO) with an Advanced Manufacturing Firm – Detroit, MI
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree in a relevant field or an MBA is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in information technology, with at least 7 years in a senior IT leadership capacity (e.g., CIO, VP of IT, Senior IT Director) overseeing a complex, global organization.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable and extensive experience within the manufacturing sector is mandatory. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in advanced manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, industrial goods, or a similar capital-intensive industry.
Technical & Strategic Proficiencies
- Proven success in leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives within a manufacturing environment.
- Deep understanding and practical experience with Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT, operational technology (OT) integration, and smart factory principles.
- Expert-level knowledge of modern ERP and MES platforms (e.g., SAP S/4HANA, Oracle, Plex Systems, Infor) and experience leading complex implementation or modernization projects.
- Comprehensive experience in developing, implementing, and managing a sophisticated cybersecurity framework (e.g., NIST CSF, ISO 27001) and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Strong command of modern IT infrastructure, including cloud computing strategies (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), network engineering, and data center management.
Leadership Competencies
- Exceptional business acumen and the ability to think strategically, linking technology initiatives directly to business outcomes.
- Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus among a wide range of stakeholders, from technical staff to the Board of Directors.
- A proven track record of building, leading, and motivating high-performance, globally distributed teams.
- Strong financial discipline with experience managing significant IT budgets and delivering projects on time and within scope.
- An innovative, agile, and results-oriented mindset with a passion for continuous learning and improvement.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is dedicated to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation Package
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, stock options, or phantom stock).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness Benefits
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, as well as robust life insurance and disability coverage.
Retirement Savings Plan
A 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, industry conferences, continued education, and professional certifications to support your ongoing growth.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family to facilitate a smooth transition to the Detroit metropolitan area.
Executive Perks
May include benefits such as a vehicle allowance, club memberships, and other perquisites commensurate with a C-level position.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive, confidential search conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
