Role Overview for Director of Advanced Manufacturing
JRG Partners is exclusively partnering with a pioneering leader in the high-growth, innovative manufacturing sector to identify and recruit a visionary Director of Advanced Manufacturing. This is a pivotal leadership role for an individual who is not just familiar with the latest manufacturing technologies but is also a strategic architect capable of implementing them to revolutionize production processes. Our client is at the forefront of their industry, committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and they seek a dynamic leader to spearhead their advanced manufacturing initiatives, ensuring operational excellence, scalability, and sustained competitive advantage.
As the Director of Advanced Manufacturing, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client’s production capabilities. You will lead the charge in identifying, evaluating, and deploying cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, including but not limited to automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, additive manufacturing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, strategic foresight, and exceptional leadership skills to drive innovation from concept to execution.
You will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive advanced manufacturing strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term goals, enhances efficiency, improves product quality, and significantly reduces costs. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a profound impact on an organization poised for exponential growth, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technological advancement across all manufacturing operations. You will report directly to a senior executive and play a critical role in the executive leadership team, influencing key decisions that will define the company’s operational trajectory for years to come.
The successful candidate will be a change agent, comfortable navigating complex technical challenges, inspiring cross-functional teams, and championing the adoption of new methodologies. This role is not merely about maintaining existing systems but about actively disrupting and transforming them to unlock new levels of performance and innovation. If you are passionate about the future of manufacturing and possess a proven track record of leading successful advanced manufacturing implementations, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity to contribute to a company that values innovation, excellence, and a commitment to shaping the industry’s next chapter.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Advanced Manufacturing
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive advanced manufacturing strategy, roadmap, and vision that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives and growth ambitions. Continuously evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends to ensure the company remains at the cutting edge of manufacturing innovation.
Technology Evaluation & Implementation
Identify, research, and evaluate new advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., industrial automation, collaborative robotics, AI/ML for predictive maintenance and quality, additive manufacturing, AR/VR for training/maintenance, IoT sensors, digital twins, MES/MOM systems). Lead the successful pilot, integration, and scaling of selected technologies into production environments.
Process Optimization & Efficiency
Drive initiatives for continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies across all manufacturing processes. Optimize production flows, reduce waste, improve cycle times, and enhance overall operational efficiency and throughput.
Budget & Capital Expenditure Management
Develop and manage budgets for advanced manufacturing projects, including capital expenditure requests, ROI analysis, and cost-benefit assessments for new technology investments. Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Team Leadership & Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of manufacturing engineers, automation specialists, and technicians. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, continuous learning, and accountability within the advanced manufacturing group.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with R&D, Product Development, Engineering, Supply Chain, IT, and Production teams to ensure seamless integration of new technologies and processes from design to full-scale manufacturing. Act as a primary liaison for advanced manufacturing expertise.
Quality Assurance & Control
Implement advanced quality control systems and methodologies (e.g., vision systems, inline inspection, statistical process control enabled by AI) to ensure the highest product quality and reliability, minimizing defects and rework.
Industry 4.0 & Digital Transformation
Spearhead the company’s journey towards Industry 4.0, leveraging data analytics, connectivity, and smart manufacturing principles to create a highly efficient, responsive, and intelligent factory ecosystem.
Risk Management & Compliance
Identify and mitigate risks associated with new technology adoption, ensuring compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. Establish robust protocols for data security and operational integrity.
Vendor & Partner Management
Cultivate strong relationships with technology vendors, research institutions, and industry partners to stay abreast of innovations and leverage external expertise for accelerated development and deployment.
Requirements for the Director of Advanced Manufacturing
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related technical field is required. A Master’s degree or MBA is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5-7 years specifically in a leadership role focused on advanced manufacturing, automation, or process innovation within a high-volume, high-complexity production environment.
Technical Expertise
Demonstrated hands-on experience and deep understanding of a wide range of advanced manufacturing technologies, including but not limited to:
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- Robotics and advanced automation (e.g., collaborative robots, autonomous mobile robots).
- Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) technologies and applications.
- Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and sensor integration.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications in manufacturing (e.g., predictive maintenance, quality inspection, process optimization).
- Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) software.
- Digital Twin technology.
- Advanced materials and processing techniques.
- Data analytics and visualization tools for manufacturing insights.
Process Improvement Acumen
Proven track record of successfully implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Black Belt certification preferred), and other continuous improvement methodologies that have resulted in significant operational gains.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and talent development capabilities. Ability to inspire, motivate, and guide diverse teams through significant technological and cultural change. Experience managing large-scale projects with cross-functional teams.
Strategic Thinking
Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable strategies and business cases.
Communication & Influence
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to all levels of the organization, including executive leadership, and effectively influence stakeholders.
Financial Acumen
Solid understanding of financial principles, budgeting, capital expenditure justification, and ROI analysis for technology investments.
Problem-Solving
Demonstrated ability to diagnose complex technical and operational problems, develop creative solutions, and drive them to successful resolution.
Industry Knowledge
Familiarity with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and quality management systems (e.g., ISO). Experience in a highly regulated industry (e.g., medical devices, aerospace, automotive) is a plus.
Adaptability
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to evolving technological landscapes.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes that investing in their employees is paramount to their collective success. As the Director of Advanced Manufacturing, you will be offered a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth, personal well-being, and financial security. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based bonus structure that rewards significant contributions and achievements.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, with options for PPO and HMO coverage, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs.
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a strong company match, ensuring your long-term financial stability.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Significant opportunities for continuous learning, including tuition reimbursement, industry conference attendance, certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP), and access to cutting-edge training programs to keep your skills at the forefront of the industry.
Innovative Work Environment
The chance to work with state-of-the-art technologies and contribute to groundbreaking projects in a collaborative and forward-thinking culture.
Career Growth
Clear pathways for advancement within a rapidly expanding organization, with opportunities to take on increasing levels of responsibility and influence.
Relocation Assistance
For exceptional candidates requiring relocation to the Chicago, IL area, a comprehensive relocation package will be provided.
Employee Recognition
A culture that celebrates success and acknowledges the hard work and dedication of its team members.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to play a critical role in shaping the future of manufacturing and driving significant business outcomes for a market leader.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary leader with a passion for advanced manufacturing and possess the expertise to drive technological transformation, we encourage you to apply for this exceptional opportunity. JRG Partners, as the exclusive recruitment partner, is eager to connect with qualified candidates who are ready to make a significant impact.
To express your interest and be considered for the Director of Advanced Manufacturing position, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications to the JRG Partners recruitment team. We kindly request that you highlight your achievements in implementing advanced manufacturing technologies and leading successful operational improvements.
For more information about our specialized recruitment services in this area, please visit our Manufacturing & Engineering Recruitment practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially partnering with you on this exciting career journey.
