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# Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a Large Manufacturer – Detroit, MI


Role Overview for Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a Large Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, large-scale manufacturing enterprise based in the industrial heartland of Detroit, MI. We are seeking a transformative and visionary Chief Information Officer (CIO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role responsible for architecting and executing a robust, forward-thinking technology strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s ambitious business objectives.
Our client is a leader in its field, known for innovation, quality, and a commitment to operational excellence. The CIO will be instrumental in shaping the future of the organization by leveraging technology to enhance production efficiency, streamline global supply chains, and foster a culture of data-driven decision-making.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned technology executive with a proven track record of leadership within a complex, multi-site manufacturing environment. You will be more than just a technologist; you will be a strategic business partner, a change agent, and an inspirational leader. You will oversee the entire IT organization, from infrastructure and enterprise applications to cybersecurity and digital innovation.
This role requires a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the manufacturing sector, including the integration of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). You will be challenged to modernize legacy systems, implement cutting-edge solutions, and ensure the security and resilience of all technological assets. If you are a strategic thinker with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into tangible business value, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact on a thriving industry leader.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a Large Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
Strategic Technology Leadership & Vision
Develop and communicate a comprehensive technology vision and multi-year roadmap that supports the company’s strategic goals. Collaborate with the CEO, CFO, COO, and other C-suite executives to ensure IT initiatives are fully integrated with business plans for growth, profitability, and market expansion. Act as the primary technology advisor to the executive team and board of directors.
Digital Transformation & Innovation
Champion the company’s digital transformation journey by identifying and implementing innovative technologies. Drive initiatives related to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to optimize manufacturing processes, improve product quality, and create new revenue streams. Foster a culture of innovation within the IT department and across the organization, encouraging experimentation and agile development methodologies.
Enterprise Systems & Application Management
Oversee the management, optimization, and evolution of the company’s core enterprise systems, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), and Supply Chain Management (SCM) platforms. Ensure these systems are scalable, reliable, and provide a seamless experience for all users. Lead future system selection and implementation projects to support business process improvements.
Cybersecurity, Governance, and Risk Management
Architect and maintain a comprehensive, enterprise-wide cybersecurity program to protect the company’s critical information assets and intellectual property. This includes safeguarding both corporate IT infrastructure and the sensitive Operational Technology (OT) environment of the factory floors. Establish robust governance frameworks, risk assessment protocols, disaster recovery plans, and business continuity strategies to ensure operational resilience and compliance with all relevant industry regulations (e.g., NIST, CMMC).
Data Strategy & Advanced Analytics
Develop and execute a data governance and analytics strategy that transforms raw data into a strategic asset. Champion the use of business intelligence (BI), data warehousing, and predictive analytics to provide actionable insights into production efficiency, supply chain logistics, quality control, and customer behavior. Empower business leaders with the tools and information needed to make informed, data-driven decisions.
IT Infrastructure & Operations Excellence
Lead the IT infrastructure and operations teams to deliver secure, stable, and high-performing technology services across the global enterprise. Oversee network architecture, cloud strategy (public, private, hybrid), data center operations, and end-user support. Drive continuous improvement through the adoption of ITIL best practices and a focus on service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Financial Management & Vendor Relations
Develop and manage the annual IT operating and capital budgets, ensuring investments deliver maximum business value and ROI. Build and maintain strategic relationships with key technology vendors, partners, and service providers. Lead contract negotiations and ensure vendor performance meets or exceeds expectations.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a world-class global IT organization. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture that attracts, develops, and retains top talent. Implement clear career paths, training programs, and succession plans to ensure the long-term health and capability of the IT department.
Requirements for the Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a Large Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Information Technology, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP of IT, Senior Director, CIO) for a large, complex organization.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable and significant experience within the manufacturing industry is mandatory. A deep understanding of production environments, supply chain dynamics, and the convergence of IT and OT is essential.
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Strategic & Business Acumen
Proven ability to function as a strategic business partner, not just a technology leader. Must possess strong financial acumen and the ability to build compelling business cases for technology investments.
Technical Proficiency
Broad and deep knowledge of modern IT infrastructure, cloud computing, enterprise applications (especially ERP systems like SAP or Oracle), data architecture, and cybersecurity principles. Experience with implementing and leveraging Industry 4.0 principles is a significant plus.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a clear technology vision to both technical and non-technical audiences, from the factory floor to the boardroom, is critical.
Change Management
Proven track record of leading large-scale organizational change and technology transformations. Must be adept at managing complex projects, navigating organizational politics, and driving user adoption of new systems and processes.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the corporate headquarters in the greater Detroit, MI area. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier executive talent. This includes:

Highly competitive base salary and executive bonus program.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) with equity components.
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your family.
Robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Executive-level professional development and continuing education opportunities.
Full relocation package for qualifying candidates.
An opportunity to work with a talented executive team and make a significant impact on the future of a market-leading company.

How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and expressing your interest. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We encourage you to apply promptly as we are actively reviewing candidates. JRG Partners is a leader in executive placement, and we invite you to learn more about our technology executive search practice for more information on how we connect top talent with leading organizations. We look forward to reviewing your application.