Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a transformative Chief Technology Officer (CTO) on behalf of a prestigious and forward-thinking manufacturing group headquartered in the industrial heartland of Detroit, MI. This is not merely a leadership role; it is a career-defining opportunity to architect the technological future of an established industry leader at the critical intersection of traditional manufacturing and digital innovation. As a key member of the executive team reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), you will be the central force driving the company’s technology vision, strategy, and execution, ensuring that our client not only adapts to the future but actively defines it.
The ideal candidate is a visionary technologist and an inspirational leader with a profound understanding of how technology can revolutionize manufacturing operations, from the factory floor to the C-suite. You will be responsible for a holistic technology ecosystem, encompassing robust enterprise IT infrastructure, stringent cybersecurity protocols, and pioneering advancements in areas such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and data analytics. Your leadership will directly impact business growth, enhance operational efficiency, improve product quality, and create a sustainable competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving global market.
This role demands a unique blend of strategic acumen and technical depth. You will be tasked with evaluating emerging technologies, championing digital transformation initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation across the organization. You will be the bridge between technology and business objectives, translating complex technical concepts into strategic business imperatives for the board of directors and other executive stakeholders. If you are a change agent with a passion for leveraging technology to solve complex industrial challenges and a proven track record of leading high-performing teams, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Detroit, MI
Strategic Technology Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term technology and digital transformation roadmap that aligns directly with the company’s strategic business goals. Conduct ongoing analysis of technology trends, competitive landscapes, and market opportunities to inform strategy. Present technology vision, strategic plans, and performance metrics to the executive team and Board of Directors.
Enterprise Systems & IT Infrastructure Oversight
Assume ultimate responsibility for the stability, scalability, and security of all IT infrastructure, including networks, data centers, cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP), and telecommunications. Oversee the management and optimization of critical enterprise applications, including ERP (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.
Manufacturing Technology & Innovation
Champion the strategic implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies to create ‘smart factory’ environments. Drive initiatives leveraging IIoT for predictive maintenance, AI/ML for process optimization and quality control, robotics for automation, and digital twins for simulation and product development.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Architect and maintain a world-class cybersecurity program to protect the company’s intellectual property, sensitive data, and critical operational technology (OT) systems. Ensure compliance with all relevant industry and governmental regulations. Develop and implement robust disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
Data Strategy & Analytics
Establish and lead a comprehensive data governance framework. Build a center of excellence for data analytics and business intelligence, transforming raw data from across the enterprise into actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and new revenue opportunities.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing, multi-disciplinary technology organization. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning. Implement strategies for talent acquisition, development, and retention to ensure the team has the skills needed for future challenges.
Financial & Vendor Management
Develop and manage the annual technology operating and capital budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and maximizing return on investment. Lead technology procurement, negotiate contracts with vendors and service providers, and manage key partner relationships to ensure value and performance.
Executive Collaboration & Change Management
Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and other C-level executives. Collaborate closely with leaders in Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, and R&D to ensure technology initiatives are integrated and support all facets of the business. Lead change management efforts to ensure successful adoption of new technologies and processes across the organization.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Detroit, MI
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or MBA is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in technology leadership, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., CTO, CIO, VP of Technology) overseeing technology strategy for a complex, scaled organization.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within the manufacturing, industrial, automotive, or a related sector is strongly preferred. A deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of applying technology in an operational technology (OT) environment is critical.
Technical Acumen
Deep expertise across a broad range of technology domains, including cloud computing, enterprise architecture, ERP/MES systems, data analytics, and modern software development practices. Proven experience in designing and implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST).
Transformational Leadership
A proven track record of successfully leading large-scale digital transformation and business process re-engineering projects that delivered measurable business outcomes.
Innovation Mindset
In-depth knowledge of and practical experience with emerging technologies and their application in manufacturing, including a strong understanding of Industry 4.0 principles, IIoT, AI/ML, and automation.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional ability to lead, inspire, and develop a diverse global team. Superior communication, presentation, and influencing skills, with the ability to articulate a compelling technology vision to both technical and non-technical audiences, from the boardroom to the factory floor.
Business & Financial Acumen
Strong financial management skills, with experience developing and managing multi-million dollar budgets. A keen ability to connect technology investments to business value and ROI.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
- A competitive executive base salary and performance-based annual bonus.
- A significant long-term incentive plan (equity or equivalent).
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Substantial paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
- An executive car allowance and other executive-level perquisites.
- A budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, and executive coaching.
- The unparalleled opportunity to shape the technological destiny of an industry leader and drive meaningful change in the American manufacturing landscape.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary technology executive ready to take on a challenge that will define the next chapter of your career, we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is leading this executive search on an exclusive basis. All applications and inquiries will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
To be considered for this pivotal role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information or to discuss your qualifications, please connect with the JRG Partners’ Technology Executive Search practice. We look forward to learning more about how your expertise can drive our client’s success.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
