Role Overview for Chief Manufacturing Technology Officer with a Building Products Manufacturer – Nashville, TN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, forward-thinking building products manufacturer in their search for a transformative Chief Manufacturing Technology Officer (CMTO). This is a career-defining executive leadership opportunity based in the vibrant city of Nashville, TN. Our client is an established industry leader renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. They are now poised for a new era of growth, driven by the strategic integration of cutting-edge technology into their manufacturing operations.
The Chief Manufacturing Technology Officer will be a key member of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. This role is not simply about managing IT; it is about revolutionizing the entire production ecosystem. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep understanding of both manufacturing processes and emerging digital technologies. You will be responsible for crafting and executing a comprehensive technology strategy that enhances operational efficiency, improves product quality, ensures worker safety, reduces costs, and solidifies the company’s position as a market leader. This strategic imperative involves spearheading the adoption of automation, robotics, IoT, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other advanced manufacturing systems across a multi-site network of production facilities. You will be the primary architect of the company’s digital manufacturing future, building a world-class technology infrastructure and a culture of continuous innovation.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Manufacturing Technology Officer with a Building Products Manufacturer – Nashville, TN
Strategic Vision and Technology Roadmap
- Develop, articulate, and execute a multi-year manufacturing technology vision and strategic roadmap that directly supports and accelerates the company’s overall business objectives.
- Conduct in-depth analysis of current manufacturing processes, systems, and capabilities to identify key areas for technological improvement, optimization, and disruption.
- Stay at the forefront of technological advancements and industry trends, evaluating emerging technologies like AI/ML, digital twins, additive manufacturing, and advanced robotics for their potential impact and application within the building products sector.
- Champion the business case for significant technology investments, presenting clear ROI analysis, risk assessments, and strategic justifications to the CEO, CFO, and Board of Directors.
Technology Implementation and Operational Excellence
- Lead the end-to-end implementation of large-scale technology projects, from initial concept and vendor selection to full-scale deployment, integration, and user adoption across all manufacturing sites.
- Drive the company’s evolution towards smart factory operations by implementing robust Industry 4.0 principles, including the deployment of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors, data acquisition systems, and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
- Oversee the integration of operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT) to create a seamless, secure, and data-rich environment.
- Establish and enforce rigorous standards for manufacturing systems architecture, cybersecurity, data governance, and operational reliability.
- Champion continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) and leverage technology to identify and eliminate waste, reduce cycle times, and enhance production quality.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
- Build a sophisticated data analytics capability to transform raw manufacturing data into actionable business insights.
- Implement predictive analytics and machine learning models to forecast maintenance needs (predictive maintenance), optimize production scheduling, improve quality control, and enhance supply chain visibility.
- Develop and deploy dashboards and reporting tools that provide real-time visibility into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), first-pass yield, and cost per unit.
- Foster a data-driven decision-making culture throughout the manufacturing organization.
Leadership and Team Development
- Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team of engineers, data scientists, project managers, and IT/OT specialists.
- Cultivate a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability within the manufacturing technology organization.
- Act as a key collaborator and influential partner to other C-suite executives, including the COO, CIO, and CFO, to ensure tight alignment of technology initiatives with operational, financial, and corporate goals.
- Manage relationships with external technology vendors, research institutions, and strategic partners to leverage their expertise and create a powerful innovation ecosystem.
Requirements for the Chief Manufacturing Technology Officer with a Building Products Manufacturer – Nashville, TN
Education & Experience
- Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering discipline (e.g., Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical), Computer Science, or a related technical field. An MBA is highly preferred.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., VP, CTO, Director) with direct responsibility for technology strategy and implementation.
- Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale digital transformation and smart factory initiatives within a complex, multi-site manufacturing organization.
- Direct experience in the building products, industrial goods, automotive, or a similar heavy manufacturing industry is essential.
Technical & Leadership Competencies
- Deep subject matter expertise in a broad range of modern manufacturing technologies, including MES, SCADA, PLC, automation, robotics, machine vision, IIoT, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
- Strong command of data analytics, business intelligence, and the application of AI/ML in a manufacturing context.
- Exceptional strategic thinking and business acumen, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business value.
- Demonstrated experience in capital project management, budget development, and financial oversight for large technology investments.
- Visionary leadership style with outstanding communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills. Capable of inspiring change and driving alignment from the shop floor to the boardroom.
- A hands-on, results-oriented leader who is comfortable in both strategic planning sessions and on the factory floor.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus.
- A meaningful long-term incentive plan, including equity or stock options.
- Comprehensive, premium health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and flexible work arrangements.
- A comprehensive relocation package to the Nashville, TN area for the successful candidate and their family.
- Opportunities for continued professional development, including executive coaching and attendance at industry-leading conferences.
- The opportunity to make a lasting impact on a respected industry leader.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative technology leader with a passion for manufacturing innovation and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the manufacturing and technology sectors. To learn more about our expertise and explore other opportunities, please connect with our Industrial Practice team. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
