Role Overview for Head of Digital Transformation, Operations with a Global CPG – Cincinnati, OH
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a visionary and transformative Head of Digital Transformation, Operations for our client, a titan in the global Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. Headquartered in the vibrant business hub of Cincinnati, OH, our client is a household name with a portfolio of iconic brands that are beloved by millions worldwide. This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic imperative at the heart of the company’s future success. We are seeking a senior executive who can architect and execute a groundbreaking digital transformation across the entire global operations footprint, revolutionizing how products are made, managed, and delivered.
The successful candidate will be a trailblazer, responsible for integrating cutting-edge technologies and data-driven strategies into every facet of the supply chain, manufacturing, and logistics network. You will be the central force driving the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles, converting traditional factories into interconnected, intelligent, and autonomous ‘smart factories’. This role demands a unique blend of deep operational expertise, technological fluency, strategic foresight, and inspirational leadership. You will be empowered to challenge the status quo, build a world-class team, and deploy capital against high-impact initiatives that will generate significant value, enhance competitive advantage, and create a more agile, resilient, and sustainable operational ecosystem for decades to come. This is a career-defining opportunity to leave an indelible mark on a global powerhouse from its strategic operational center in Cincinnati.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Digital Transformation, Operations with a Global CPG – Cincinnati, OH
The Head of Digital Transformation, Operations will have a broad and impactful remit, focusing on strategy, execution, and leadership across several key domains:
Strategic Vision & Roadmap Development
- Develop, articulate, and own the multi-year digital transformation roadmap for global operations, ensuring tight alignment with overarching corporate strategy and financial objectives.
- Partner directly with the Chief Operations Officer, CEO, and other C-suite executives to champion the vision and secure buy-in and resources for key initiatives.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of the current operational landscape to identify key opportunities for digital intervention and innovation.
- Define and meticulously track a portfolio of KPIs, metrics, and ROI models to measure the tangible business impact of transformation projects, reporting progress to the executive board.
- Lead the annual strategic planning and budgeting process for digital operations, managing a significant multi-million dollar budget to drive the agenda forward.
Technology & Innovation Leadership
- Act as the organization’s foremost expert on emerging operational technologies, constantly scanning the horizon for new tools and platforms that can create a competitive edge.
- Lead the evaluation, selection, and enterprise-wide implementation of advanced technologies, including but not limited to: Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), AI/ML for predictive maintenance and demand forecasting, robotics and process automation (RPA), digital twins for process simulation and optimization, and advanced data analytics platforms.
- Oversee the seamless integration of new digital solutions with legacy enterprise systems such as ERP (SAP S/4HANA), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
- Collaborate with the CISO to embed robust cybersecurity protocols within the Operational Technology (OT) environment, protecting critical infrastructure from emerging threats.
End-to-End Value Chain Optimization
- Re-engineer and digitize core operational processes across the entire value chain, from raw material sourcing to final customer delivery.
Manufacturing
Spearhead the ‘Smart Factory’ initiative, implementing solutions for real-time performance monitoring, automated quality control using machine vision, and predictive asset management to maximize OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
Supply Chain & Logistics
Design and build highly resilient and agile next-generation digital supply chains with end-to-end visibility, predictive logistics, and automated warehousing solutions.
Procurement
Leverage digital platforms for enhanced strategic sourcing, dynamic supplier collaboration, and proactive supply chain risk management.
Data, Analytics & Insights
- Establish and enforce a comprehensive data governance framework to ensure the quality, accessibility, and security of all operational data.
- Build and lead a center of excellence for advanced operational analytics, hiring and mentoring data scientists, engineers, and analysts.
- Champion the use of data to drive decision-making at every level of the operations organization, moving from reactive reporting to predictive and prescriptive insights.
Change Management & Cultural Leadership
- Serve as the primary evangelist for the digital transformation, communicating the ‘why’ behind the change to inspire and motivate employees at all levels.
- Develop and execute sophisticated change management strategies to ensure the smooth adoption of new technologies and processes, minimizing disruption and maximizing engagement.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and digital fluency across the global operations team.
- Build strong, collaborative partnerships with leaders in IT, R&D, Finance, and Commercial functions to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to transformation.
Requirements for the Head of Digital Transformation, Operations with a Global CPG – Cincinnati, OH
We are seeking a candidate with a proven history of leading successful, large-scale operational transformations. The ideal profile combines strategic acumen with a hands-on, execution-oriented mindset.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related technical field.
- A minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, manufacturing, or supply chain management within a complex, global organization.
- At least 7-10 years of direct, hands-on experience architecting strategy and leading the execution of large-scale digital transformation programs in a CPG, food & beverage, or comparable industrial manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrable expertise in the practical application of Industry 4.0/Smart Factory technologies (IIoT, AI/ML, automation, digital twins, big data analytics).
- A proven track record of delivering significant, quantifiable business outcomes (e.g., multi-million dollar cost savings, dramatic improvements in efficiency, enhanced product quality, increased supply chain agility) through digital initiatives.
- Exceptional executive presence and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels, from the factory floor to the C-suite.
- Strong financial and business acumen, with extensive experience developing compelling business cases, analyzing ROI, and managing large, complex budgets.
Preferred Qualifications
- An advanced degree, such as an MBA or a Master’s in a relevant technical or business discipline.
- Prior experience in a top-tier management consulting firm with a dedicated focus on digital operations or supply chain transformation.
- Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, or APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).
- Deep familiarity with modern enterprise technology stacks, including major ERP systems (specifically SAP S/4HANA), MES platforms, and cloud infrastructure (Azure, AWS).
- Experience working within an Agile or other iterative development framework to accelerate project delivery.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package that reflects this commitment. The comprehensive package includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a meaningful long-term equity incentive plan (LTI).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, along with robust wellness programs, mental health support, and fitness incentives.
Retirement Savings
A best-in-class 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build a secure future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and numerous company-paid holidays.
Family Support
An industry-leading parental leave policy for all new parents.
Relocation
A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package for the successful candidate and their family to the Greater Cincinnati area.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to your ongoing professional development, including access to executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education support.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm managing this critical recruitment. We are committed to a confidential, transparent, and respectful process for all candidates. To express your interest in this transformative leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.
If you are a visionary operational leader with a passion for technology and a track record of driving meaningful change, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique chance to shape the future of a global CPG leader.
