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# VP of Operational Excellence – CPG Company – Cincinnati, OH


 
VP of Operational Excellence – Consumer Packaged Goods
Are you a strategic operations leader with a proven ability to transform processes, elevate performance, and deliver measurable impact in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry? We are seeking a Vice President of Operational Excellence to drive continuous improvement and operational transformation for a leading CPG company based in Cincinnati, OH. This is a unique opportunity to optimize end-to-end operations, enhance productivity, and champion best-in-class performance across the organization. If you excel at building scalable systems, improving efficiency, and leading cross-functional teams, this role could be the next major step in your career.
Drive Company-Wide Optimization for a Leading CPG Brand in Cincinnati
A top-tier Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) organization in Cincinnati, OH, is looking for a VP of Operational Excellence to lead initiatives that streamline operations, elevate quality, and maximize profitability. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in lean methodologies, process reengineering, and change management, paired with a strong background in CPG operations. If you are passionate about driving sustainable efficiency, implementing data-driven strategies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, this is your opportunity to make a significant, long-term impact on a rapidly growing company.
Key Responsibilities of the VP of Operational Excellence – Consumer Packaged Goods
Operational Strategy & Transformation:
Develop and execute an enterprise-wide operational excellence strategy aligned with the company’s long-term goals. Lead transformation initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and strengthen organizational capabilities across all business units.
Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement:
Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to streamline workflows, improve quality, and enhance productivity. Champion a culture of operational excellence throughout the organization.
Performance Management & KPI Development:
Establish performance metrics, dashboards, and reporting frameworks to monitor operational health. Identify gaps, propose solutions, and drive accountability for achieving performance targets.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Work closely with supply chain, manufacturing, quality, R&D, finance, and commercial teams to ensure seamless execution of operational initiatives. Enhance communication and alignment across departments to support strategic priorities.
Cost Optimization & Efficiency Gains:
Lead cost-reduction initiatives without compromising quality or service levels. Identify inefficiencies, implement data-driven improvements, and drive sustainable cost savings across operations.
Supply Chain & Manufacturing Excellence:
Oversee optimization of supply chain, production processes, and distribution networks. Ensure competitive lead times, strong vendor relationships, inventory accuracy, and best-in-class manufacturing practices.
Quality & Compliance Oversight:
Ensure adherence to CPG industry standards, regulatory guidelines, and quality management systems. Drive initiatives that strengthen product consistency, safety, and compliance across the organization.
Change Management & Leadership:
Lead change initiatives with a structured approach that minimizes disruption and maximizes adoption. Train, mentor, and empower internal teams to implement operational improvements and sustain long-term success.
Innovation & Technology Integration:
Leverage advanced technologies, automation, and digital tools to modernize operations. Drive innovation initiatives that enhance production capability, traceability, and decision-making across the value chain.
Risk Management & Business Continuity:
Identify operational risks and establish mitigation strategies to safeguard production, supply, and service levels. Ensure business continuity plans are effective, updated, and tested regularly.
What the Client is Looking for in You
As the VP of Operational Excellence – CPG, the client seeks a strategic, metrics-driven leader capable of transforming operations and elevating business performance across the organization. You should be an influential change agent with deep expertise in process improvement, cross-functional leadership, and operational optimization within the CPG industry.
Proven CPG Operational Leadership
The ideal candidate brings extensive experience driving operational excellence within the CPG sector. You should have a strong record of improving manufacturing efficiency, enhancing supply chain performance, implementing cost-saving initiatives, and leading large-scale process transformations.
Strategic Thinker Focused on Efficiency & Growth
You must demonstrate the ability to develop and execute operational strategies that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and support long-term business growth. The client values leaders who can anticipate operational challenges, leverage data-driven insights, and implement innovative solutions.
Strong Analytical & Financial Acumen
A solid command of operational metrics, financial modeling, budgeting, and cost analysis is essential. You should be adept at interpreting data, identifying inefficiencies, and making strategic decisions that improve profitability and operational performance.
Leadership Excellence & Team Development
The client seeks a collaborative leader who can inspire and develop high-performing teams. You should have experience leading cross-functional groups, fostering accountability, promoting continuous improvement, and building a culture grounded in efficiency and innovation.
Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma & Continuous Improvement
Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies are highly preferred. Your experience implementing process optimization frameworks and building sustainable CI programs will be critical to the role’s success.
Customer- and Quality-Centric Mindset
The ideal candidate prioritizes product quality, consumer satisfaction, and operational reliability. You must understand how operational performance impacts customer experience and be skilled at translating quality standards into actionable processes.
Effective Communication & Stakeholder Management
The client values a VP who can collaborate effectively with executives, manufacturing leaders, suppliers, and cross-functional partners. Strong communication, transparency, and the ability to gain stakeholder buy-in are essential.
Commitment to Compliance & Operational Risk Management
A deep understanding of regulatory requirements, quality systems, and supply chain risks is crucial. You should demonstrate commitment to safety, compliance, and ethical operations across all processes and functions.
FAQs About the Role – VP of Operational Excellence – Consumer Packaged Goods
1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP of Operational Excellence?
As the VP of Operational Excellence, you will lead the development and implementation of operational improvement initiatives across the organization. Your responsibilities include driving process optimization, enhancing manufacturing and supply chain performance, improving quality systems, reducing operational costs, and building a culture of continuous improvement. You will collaborate cross-functionally to align processes with strategic goals and ensure operational efficiency throughout the business.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have extensive operational leadership experience within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. A strong background in Lean, Six Sigma, continuous improvement, manufacturing excellence, and supply chain optimization is essential. The client seeks a results-driven leader with proven experience leading large-scale operational transformations and delivering measurable performance improvements. Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Black Belt are preferred. An MBA, engineering degree, or related advanced qualification is an added advantage but not mandatory.
3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The role requires a strategic, data-driven leader with the ability to inspire teams and drive change across all levels of the organization. You should possess strong analytical thinking, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to influence cross-functional leaders. Strong communication, adaptability, and a commitment to operational excellence are essential, along with the ability to lead teams through continuous improvement initiatives.
4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
As VP of Operational Excellence, you may encounter challenges related to process inefficiencies, cultural resistance to change, supply chain constraints, fluctuating consumer demand, and quality or compliance issues. The role requires balancing cost optimization with product quality, maintaining operational stability during transformation, and managing multiple high-impact initiatives simultaneously.
5. How will this role impact the company’s growth?
Your leadership will directly influence the company’s efficiency, profitability, and competitive advantage. By improving manufacturing performance, optimizing supply chain processes, and driving operational excellence, you will help the company reduce costs, enhance product quality, improve customer satisfaction, and accelerate growth in the highly competitive CPG market.
6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company promotes an innovation-focused, collaborative, and performance-driven culture. They value leaders who champion teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. As VP of Operational Excellence, you will play a key role in shaping the operational culture and helping teams adopt best practices that support long-term success.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
As the VP of Operational Excellence – CPG based in Cincinnati, OH, you can expect a competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract experienced operational leaders. Typical remuneration for this role includes:
1. Base Salary
Base salary for a VP of Operational Excellence in the CPG sector generally ranges from $180,000 to $250,000 annually, depending on company size, complexity of operations, and years of executive experience. Large or fast-growing CPG companies may offer salaries on the higher end of this range.
2. Performance-Based Bonuses
Performance bonuses are commonly tied to operational metrics such as productivity improvements, cost reductions, efficiency gains, quality performance, and overall business results. Annual bonus potential typically ranges from 20% to 50% of base salary, depending on individual and organizational performance.
3. Equity & Long-Term Incentives
Many CPG companies offer long-term incentives, including stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares. These equity-based rewards help align leadership performance with long-term company value, and in some organizations, can form a substantial part of the total compensation package.
4. Profit-Sharing & Operational Incentive Plans
Some companies may offer profit-sharing or strategic operational incentive programs that reward leaders for achieving multi-year operational excellence goals such as cost optimization, quality metrics, and productivity improvements.
5. Executive Benefits & Perks
VP-level executives typically receive a robust benefits package, which may include:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) or retirement plan contributions
Executive wellness programs
Annual professional development or certification budgets
Travel allowances for cross-site operations oversight
Company-paid technology and communication tools

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Support
Depending on the candidate’s experience and location, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation assistance. These incentives can range from $10,000 to $50,000, especially if specialized operational expertise is required.
Total Compensation Potential
Including base salary, bonuses, equity, and incentives, total annual compensation for a VP of Operational Excellence in the CPG industry can typically range from $225,000 to $400,000+, depending on company scale, performance results, and long-term incentive structures.
How to Apply
If you are a results-driven operational leader with deep expertise in process improvement, manufacturing excellence, and efficiency optimization within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, we encourage you to apply for the VP of Operational Excellence – CPG Company – Cincinnati, OH. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead high-impact operational initiatives, drive continuous improvement, and elevate organizational performance across a growing CPG enterprise.
To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter highlighting your experience in operational strategy, Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, supply chain optimization, quality enhancement, cost reduction, and cross-functional leadership. Be sure to outline your achievements in driving measurable performance improvements, leading transformation programs, and building a culture of operational excellence within CPG environments.
This role offers a high-visibility, high-impact career pathway where you will play a critical role in shaping the company’s operational direction, strengthening efficiencies, and enabling sustainable business growth. Apply today to advance your executive career as the VP of Operational Excellence – Consumer Packaged Goods, Cincinnati, OH.
For additional information or to explore similar leadership opportunities, visit our Lean Manufacturing & Operational Excellence Executive Search Firm Page.
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VP of Operational Excellence | CPG Executive Jobs | Consumer Packaged Goods Leadership | Operational Excellence Strategy | Lean Six Sigma | Process Improvement | Supply Chain Optimization | Manufacturing Excellence | Continuous Improvement Leadership | CPG Operations Executive