Role Overview for SVP, Operational Excellence with a Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 defense contractor in their search for a transformative Senior Vice President (SVP) of Operational Excellence. This executive leadership position, based in the strategic hub of Phoenix, Arizona, is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary leader to shape the future of operational performance within a mission-critical organization. The successful candidate will be the driving force behind creating a culture of continuous improvement, optimizing complex manufacturing processes, and ensuring unparalleled quality and efficiency across all facets of the business.
As the SVP of Operational Excellence, you will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and will be a key member of the executive leadership team. Your mandate will be to design, implement, and sustain a world-class operational excellence program that delivers measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC). You will be responsible for standardizing best practices, deploying advanced methodologies like Lean Six Sigma, and fostering an environment where every employee is empowered to identify and eliminate waste.
This role requires a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of influencing change at all levels of the organization—from the factory floor to the boardroom. You will be instrumental in ensuring our client not only meets but exceeds the stringent requirements of its government and military customers, solidifying its position as an industry leader in innovation, reliability, and performance. This is more than a job; it is a chance to make a significant impact on national security and lead a talented team dedicated to excellence.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Operational Excellence with a Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term operational excellence strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives and growth targets. Champion a forward-thinking vision for operational capabilities that anticipates future industry trends and technological advancements.
Continuous Improvement Program Deployment
Lead the enterprise-wide deployment of continuous improvement initiatives. This includes establishing a robust framework based on methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma. You will be responsible for training, coaching, and mentoring a network of change agents and practitioners throughout the organization.
Performance Management & Metrics
Establish, monitor, and drive improvement on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across all operational functions. Implement visual management systems and regular performance reviews to ensure accountability and track progress against targets for safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost reduction.
Process Optimization & Standardization
Conduct in-depth analysis of current processes across manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, and program management. Identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement, and lead cross-functional teams to implement standardized, best-in-class processes that enhance productivity and reduce waste.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure strict adherence to all industry and government standards, including AS9100, and compliance with regulations such as ITAR and DFARS. Drive a zero-defect culture and lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives.
Supply Chain & Manufacturing Excellence
Collaborate closely with supply chain and manufacturing leaders to optimize material flow, inventory management, production scheduling, and supplier performance. Implement lean principles to create a more agile and resilient supply chain and manufacturing footprint.
Executive Collaboration & Influence
Serve as a key advisor to the executive leadership team on all matters related to operational performance. Build strong, collaborative relationships with peers in Engineering, Finance, Program Management, and Business Development to ensure that operational excellence is integrated into every aspect of the business lifecycle.
Talent Development & Culture Change
Foster a pervasive culture of continuous improvement, problem-solving, and accountability. Mentor and develop a high-performing team of operational excellence professionals. Champion employee engagement and empowerment programs to harness the collective intelligence of the workforce.
Financial & Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the budget for the Operational Excellence department. Build compelling business cases for investment in new technologies, tools, and training, demonstrating clear ROI through cost savings, efficiency gains, and improved profitability.
Requirements for the SVP, Operational Excellence with a Defense Contractor – Phoenix, AZ
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Aerospace), Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS) is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in operations, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director, VP, or SVP) overseeing operational excellence or continuous improvement for a large, complex organization.
Industry Expertise
Significant and recent experience within the Aerospace & Defense (A&D) industry is mandatory. A deep understanding of the defense contracting environment, including government contracts, FAR/DFARS regulations, and customer requirements, is essential.
Methodology Proficiency
Master-level expertise in continuous improvement methodologies. Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt or Black Belt certification is highly desirable. Proven, hands-on experience leading Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and other lean tools to achieve tangible business results.
Leadership & Influence
Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale organizational change and cultural transformation. Must possess exceptional executive presence, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels, from shop floor employees to the Board of Directors.
Strategic & Analytical Skills
Superior strategic planning and analytical skills. Must be adept at translating high-level business strategy into actionable operational plans and using data-driven insights to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial literacy with experience in P&L management, budgeting, and capital expenditure planning. Must be able to quantify the financial impact of operational improvements.
Security Clearance
Must be a U.S. Citizen. The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance is required. An active clearance is a significant plus.
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 competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual bonus potential and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, RSUs).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with a Health Savings Account (HSA) with a generous employer contribution.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a competitive company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth with opportunities for executive coaching, conference attendance, and continued education.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to move to the vibrant Phoenix, AZ area.
Work-Life Balance
A culture that values the well-being of its employees and supports a healthy balance between professional and personal life.
How to Apply
If you are a proven operational leader with a passion for excellence and a track record of transformative results in the defense industry, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners specializes in placing top executive talent in the Aerospace & Defense and Industrial sectors. To be considered for this confidential search, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications.
To learn more about our expertise and view related opportunities, please visit our Aerospace & Defense Practice Area page. We look forward to connecting with you.
