Role Overview for SVP, Manufacturing with an Aerospace & Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 Aerospace and Defense (A&D) contractor in their search for a transformative Senior Vice President (SVP) of Manufacturing. Based in the dynamic hub of Phoenix, Arizona, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to steer the manufacturing strategy for a multi-billion dollar organization renowned for its innovation, quality, and commitment to national security.
The SVP of Manufacturing will be the principal architect of the company’s production future, responsible for all aspects of manufacturing operations across multiple sites. This individual will drive operational excellence, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure the timely, cost-effective delivery of complex, high-stakes products that serve critical defense and aerospace missions.
As a key member of the executive leadership team, you will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and will be entrusted with developing and executing a long-term manufacturing vision that aligns with the company’s aggressive growth objectives. This role demands a leader who is not only a master of modern manufacturing methodologies but also a strategic thinker capable of navigating the intricate landscape of the A&D industry. You will be responsible for enhancing production capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technologies like automation and data analytics (Industry 4.0), and building a world-class manufacturing organization.
The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of complex assembly, precision machining, and electronics integration, coupled with a proven track record of leading large, diverse teams to achieve exceptional results in safety, quality, delivery, and cost. This is more than a job; it is a chance to make a significant impact on an industry leader and contribute directly to the technological superiority that underpins global security.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Manufacturing with an Aerospace & Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and implement a comprehensive, forward-looking manufacturing strategy that supports business growth, enhances competitive advantage, and aligns with overall corporate objectives. Champion a vision for the ‘factory of the future,’ integrating automation, IoT, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
Drive a culture of relentless continuous improvement by deploying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies across all manufacturing sites. Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress in safety, quality, delivery, inventory, and productivity (SQDIP). Lead initiatives to optimize production flow, reduce waste, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Production & Supply Chain Oversight
Direct all aspects of the production lifecycle, from planning and scheduling to final assembly and testing. Ensure robust capacity planning and resource allocation to meet demanding customer schedules and fluctuating production volumes. Collaborate closely with the supply chain organization to ensure material availability, mitigate risks, and optimize inventory levels.
Quality & Compliance Assurance
Uphold the highest standards of quality and ensure strict compliance with all industry and government regulations. Maintain and enhance the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring adherence to rigorous standards such as AS9100 quality management systems. Foster a ‘zero-defect’ mindset throughout the organization and lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives.
Financial Management & P&L Responsibility
Develop and manage the annual manufacturing budget, capital expenditure plans, and operational forecasts. Hold full P&L responsibility for manufacturing operations, driving cost reduction initiatives and margin improvements without compromising quality or safety.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing manufacturing leadership team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and employee engagement. Implement robust talent development and succession planning programs to build a strong leadership pipeline for the future.
Safety & Environmental Stewardship
Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring all operations comply with OSHA and environmental regulations. Implement proactive safety programs and initiatives to achieve a zero-incident workplace.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key partner to Engineering, Program Management, Finance, and Business Development teams. Ensure seamless new product introduction (NPI) processes and effective design for manufacturability (DFM) principles are integrated early in the product lifecycle.
Requirements for the SVP, Manufacturing with an Aerospace & Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a related advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience in complex manufacturing environments, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role (VP, Director, or similar) overseeing large-scale, multi-site operations within the Aerospace & Defense industry.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience within the A&D sector is mandatory. Must have a thorough understanding of defense contracting, government regulations (FAR/DFARS), and compliance requirements (ITAR).
Technical Acumen
Proven expertise in modern manufacturing principles, including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Black Belt certification is a plus), Theory of Constraints, and Value Stream Mapping. Experience with complex electromechanical assembly, precision machining, and composites is highly desirable.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of quality management systems, specifically AS9100, is essential. Familiarity with FAA and DoD manufacturing and quality standards is required.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership abilities with a proven track record of building, inspiring, and leading high-performance teams. Must possess outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to executive peers, board members, and customers.
Financial Acumen
Strong business and financial acumen, with experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and P&L responsibilities.
Security Clearance
Must be a U.S. Citizen. The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance is required for this position.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, restricted stock units).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options are available.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you prepare for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to move to the vibrant Phoenix, AZ area.
Professional Growth
Significant opportunities for continued professional development, including executive coaching, conference attendance, and further education support.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance programs, and potential access to other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership position, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We encourage you to explore more about our executive search expertise by visiting JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing practice area. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
