Role Overview for VP of Operations, Aerospace & Defense
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a leading Aerospace & Defense company in its search for a results-driven and disciplined VP of Operations. Based in Detroit, MI, this executive leadership role owns operational performance and continuous improvement.
Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the VP of Operations will lead operations and operational excellence across the business, driving safety, quality, cost, and continuous improvement.
Aerospace and defense is a highly regulated, program-driven industry where quality and compliance are paramount. The ideal candidate is a proven operations leader who blends operational discipline and lean expertise with strong team leadership.
This is an excellent opportunity to take on significant responsibility, partner closely with leadership, and make a lasting, measurable impact on the business.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Operations, Aerospace & Defense
The role will drive operational performance, with responsibilities including but not limited to:
Operations Strategy
Develop and execute an operations strategy that aligns capability and cost with business goals.
Operational Excellence
Drive safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance with rigorous metrics and accountability.
Continuous Improvement
Deploy Lean and Six Sigma to eliminate waste and improve productivity and flow.
Process Excellence
Lead process analysis, redesign, and standardization to improve efficiency.
Cost & Productivity
Deliver measurable savings and productivity gains across operations.
Performance Metrics
Establish and monitor operational KPIs to drive data-based decisions.
Project Portfolio
Manage a portfolio of improvement projects, prioritizing by impact and delivering results.
Change Management
Lead change management to embed new processes and behaviors durably.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner across manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and commercial teams.
Capacity & Capital
Support capacity planning and capital investment to scale operations.
Training & Capability
Build operational capability through training, coaching, and development.
Team Leadership
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing operations team and a culture of excellence.
Requirements for the VP of Operations, Aerospace & Defense
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related field is required; an advanced degree is a plus.
Experience
Progressive operations experience, including leadership within a comparable industry.
Operational Expertise
Deep expertise in operations, process improvement, and cost management.
Continuous Improvement
Proven mastery of Lean and Six Sigma and a track record of measurable improvement.
Leadership
Exceptional ability to build, lead, and inspire operations teams.
Analytical Skills
Strong analytical skills and fluency in operational metrics and systems.
Change Management
Strong change-management and influencing skills.
Communication
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Results Orientation
A hands-on, results-driven leadership style with a bias for action.
Citizenship
Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency may be required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain exceptional leadership talent, including:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance bonus and long-term incentive participation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of medical, dental, and vision plans with multiple options, plus Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) choices to fit your family’s needs.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build long-term financial security.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off program, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Strong support for your continued growth, including funding for certifications, executive education, and attendance at leading industry conferences.
Leadership Platform
A high-visibility leadership role with the autonomy to shape strategy and drive results.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family, where applicable.
Collaborative Culture
A positive, inclusive, and high-integrity culture where your leadership is valued and your impact is recognized.
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished leader ready to make a meaningful impact in this role, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and achievements.
This is a retained search conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. For more on our expertise in this area, please visit our Operations & Operational Excellence executive search practice page. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at every level of the organizations we serve.
