Role Overview for VP Manufacturing & Operations, Surgical Robotics – Pittsburgh, PA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a revolutionary leader in the medical technology space, a company poised to redefine the future of minimally invasive surgery. Based in the thriving technology hub of Pittsburgh, PA, our client is developing a next-generation surgical robotics platform that promises to enhance surgeon capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and increase access to advanced surgical care worldwide. We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Vice President of Manufacturing & Operations to join their executive team and spearhead the transformation of their innovative prototypes into world-class, commercially available medical devices.
This is not merely a manufacturing role; it is a strategic leadership position critical to the company’s long-term success. The VP of Manufacturing & Operations will be the architect of the entire production and supply chain ecosystem. You will have the unique opportunity to build, from a foundational stage, a scalable, efficient, and regulatory-compliant manufacturing operation capable of meeting exponential global demand. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will be entrusted with developing the strategic roadmap, building a high-caliber team, and implementing the systems and processes necessary to produce life-saving technology of the highest quality. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to achieve its mission, making this a career-defining opportunity for an accomplished operations executive passionate about making a tangible difference in the world of healthcare.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned veteran of the medical device industry, with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in manufacturing sophisticated electro-mechanical systems. You are a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of navigating the challenges of rapid growth while instilling a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. If you are driven by innovation, excel in dynamic environments, and possess the expertise to build and lead a global manufacturing powerhouse, we invite you to apply for this pivotal role.
Key Responsibilities of VP Manufacturing & Operations, Surgical Robotics – Pittsburgh, PA
Strategic Planning & Execution
Develop and implement a comprehensive manufacturing and operations strategy that aligns with the company’s overarching business objectives. This includes long-range capacity planning, technology roadmap integration, make-versus-buy analyses, and global supply chain design. You will be responsible for creating a multi-year plan that anticipates market growth and ensures production capabilities scale effectively and efficiently.
Production Scaling & Management
Oversee the entire manufacturing lifecycle, from New Product Introduction (NPI) and process validation to full-scale commercial production. Lead the transition from low-volume, prototype builds to a high-volume, lean manufacturing environment. Implement automation and advanced manufacturing technologies to improve throughput, reduce costs, and ensure consistent product quality.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Champion a world-class quality culture throughout the organization. Ensure absolute adherence to all relevant medical device manufacturing standards. You will be the primary owner of the manufacturing environment’s compliance with FDA regulations (21 CFR Part 820), ISO 13485, and other international regulatory requirements. You will work hand-in-hand with the Quality Assurance team to manage audits, CAPAs, and all quality system documentation.
Global Supply Chain Development
Architect and manage a resilient, scalable, and cost-effective global supply chain. Identify, qualify, and manage key suppliers and contract manufacturing partners for complex components and sub-assemblies. Develop strategic partnerships to mitigate risk, ensure continuity of supply, and drive cost reductions without compromising quality. Implement robust inventory management and logistics systems.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performance team encompassing manufacturing engineering, production, supply chain, logistics, and facilities management. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Establish clear goals, provide regular feedback, and develop career paths to attract and retain top talent in a competitive market.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
Drive a relentless pursuit of operational excellence by implementing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Design for Manufacturability (DFM). Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Lead initiatives to optimize processes, eliminate waste, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Financial & Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the annual operating budget and capital expenditure plan for the entire operations department. Maintain rigorous control over Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), production variances, and inventory costs. Provide regular financial forecasts and performance reports to the executive team.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, fostering strong collaborative relationships with R&D, Clinical, Regulatory, and Commercial departments. Ensure seamless communication and alignment between teams to facilitate successful product development, launch, and post-market support.
Requirements for the VP Manufacturing & Operations, Surgical Robotics – Pittsburgh, PA
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline (e.g., Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, or Biomedical Engineering) is required. An MBA or other advanced degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing and operations within a regulated industry, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP).
Medical Device Expertise
Extensive experience in the medical device industry is mandatory. Specific experience with Class II or Class III medical devices, particularly complex electro-mechanical systems, capital equipment, or robotic systems, is essential. Direct experience in surgical robotics is a significant advantage.
Scaling Expertise
A proven and demonstrable track record of scaling manufacturing operations from early-stage, low-volume production to high-volume commercial manufacturing. Must be able to provide concrete examples of past successes in this area.
Regulatory Acumen
Deep, expert-level knowledge of FDA Quality System Regulation (QSR), ISO 13485, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Experience successfully hosting and managing inspections by regulatory bodies is required.
Operational Excellence Mastery
Formal training and significant practical experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma principles to drive measurable improvements in quality, efficiency, and cost. Black Belt certification is a plus.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven ability to build, inspire, and motivate large, multi-disciplinary teams. Must possess outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to a wide range of audiences, including the Board of Directors.
Business & Financial Acumen
Strong financial literacy with experience developing and managing multi-million dollar budgets, performing cost analysis, and driving P&L accountability for manufacturing operations.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. They believe that their employees are their most valuable asset and are dedicated to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment.
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus plan.
Meaningful Equity Ownership
A substantial equity stake (stock options or RSUs) in the company, providing the opportunity to share directly in the success you help create.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents with low employee contributions.
Retirement Savings Plan
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates moving to the vibrant Pittsburgh area.
Professional Growth
Ample opportunities for professional development, including attendance at industry conferences, continuing education support, and leadership training programs.
Impactful Work
The invaluable opportunity to be part of a mission-driven company whose technology will directly improve the lives of patients around the globe.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative operations leader with the skills, experience, and passion to build a world-class manufacturing organization for a leader in surgical robotics, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information or to explore other opportunities within our network, please visit the website of JRG Partners’ Surgical Robotics Executive Recruiters Practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our client’s groundbreaking mission.
