Role Overview for VP, Global Manufacturing Planning with an Aerospace Supplier – Orlando, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 global aerospace supplier in their search for a transformative Vice President of Global Manufacturing Planning. Based at their state-of-the-art facility in Orlando, Florida, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape the operational backbone of an organization at the forefront of aerospace innovation. Our client is a multi-billion dollar enterprise renowned for its engineering prowess, commitment to quality, and critical role in supplying complex systems and components for the world’s leading commercial and defense aviation platforms.
As the VP of Global Manufacturing Planning, you will be the chief architect and conductor of the company’s entire supply and demand orchestration. This is not merely a tactical planning role; it is a highly strategic position responsible for ensuring that our global manufacturing network, spanning multiple continents, operates in perfect harmony. You will lead the development and execution of a world-class Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process, master production scheduling, long-range capacity planning, and inventory strategy. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to meet demanding customer schedules, optimize operational efficiency, manage working capital effectively, and ultimately drive profitability and growth.
Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Global Operations, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, providing critical insights that influence corporate strategy. You will navigate the unique complexities of the aerospace industry, including long product lifecycles, stringent regulatory requirements, and dynamic market demands. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of advanced planning systems, a passion for continuous improvement, and a proven track record of building and mentoring high-performance global teams. This role requires a leader who can think strategically at 30,000 feet while ensuring flawless execution on the ground, making certain that every part is in the right place at the right time, every time.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Global Manufacturing Planning with an Aerospace Supplier – Orlando, FL
Strategic Planning & Vision
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive 3-5 year strategic roadmap for the global manufacturing planning function. This strategy will align with overall business objectives, focusing on scalability, agility, and cost-effectiveness to support long-term growth and market leadership.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Leadership
Own and champion the global S&OP process. Lead the monthly executive S&OP cycle, facilitating collaboration between Sales, Marketing, Finance, Engineering, and Operations to create a single, consensus-based operating plan that balances demand, supply, and financial targets.
Master Production Scheduling (MPS) & Capacity Management
Oversee the master scheduling for all global manufacturing sites. Implement robust processes for long-range capacity planning, resource allocation, and scenario analysis to ensure production capabilities can meet future demand and mitigate operational risks.
Global Inventory Strategy & Optimization
Design and execute a sophisticated global inventory management strategy. Establish policies for safety stock, raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods to optimize inventory turns, minimize carrying costs, reduce obsolescence, and ensure high levels of material availability.
Supply Chain Integration & Risk Mitigation
Collaborate intimately with Procurement, Logistics, and Manufacturing leaders to ensure a seamlessly integrated end-to-end supply chain. Proactively identify and mitigate risks related to supplier performance, geopolitical instability, and logistical disruptions.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, geographically dispersed organization of planning, scheduling, and inventory professionals. Foster a culture of accountability, data-driven decision-making, continuous learning, and operational excellence. Develop succession plans and build a strong talent pipeline.
Technology & Systems Enhancement
Drive the selection, implementation, and optimization of advanced planning systems (APS), ERP modules (e.g., SAP IBP, Oracle Demantra), and business intelligence tools. Leverage technology and data analytics to enhance forecast accuracy, improve planning efficiency, and provide deeper business insights.
Performance Management & KPIs
Define, track, and report on a balanced scorecard of key performance indicators (KPIs), including On-Time Delivery (OTD), forecast accuracy, schedule adherence, inventory turns, and premium freight costs. Use metrics to drive performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
Financial Acumen & Budgetary Control
Partner with the Finance organization to develop annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and long-range financial forecasts for the planning function. Ensure all planning decisions are financially sound and contribute to the company’s profitability goals.
Industry Engagement & Best Practices
Stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices within supply chain management and the aerospace sector, leveraging insights from bodies like the Aerospace Industries Association to maintain a competitive edge.
Requirements for the VP, Global Manufacturing Planning with an Aerospace Supplier – Orlando, FL
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Supply Chain) is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in supply chain, manufacturing planning, and operations roles within a complex, global manufacturing environment. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, managing large, multi-site teams.
Industry Expertise
Deep experience in the aerospace and defense industry is mandatory. Candidates with extensive experience in other highly regulated, complex manufacturing sectors (such as automotive Tier-1 or medical device manufacturing) with long product lifecycles will also be considered.
S&OP Mastery
Demonstrated expertise in designing, implementing, and leading a mature, global S&OP process. Must have a proven history of driving alignment and achieving results through the S&OP framework.
Technical Proficiency
In-depth knowledge of Tier-1 ERP systems (SAP or Oracle preferred) and hands-on experience with modern Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) software. Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional leadership presence with the proven ability to inspire, influence, and motivate teams across different cultures and geographies. Superior communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly to an executive audience.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
A highly strategic thinker with the ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and develop actionable plans. Must be adept at balancing long-term strategic initiatives with short-term operational priorities.
Certifications
Professional certifications from recognized industry organizations such as APICS (e.g., CSCP, CPIM) or a certification in Lean Six Sigma (e.g., Green Belt, Black Belt) are highly desirable.
Travel & Location
The ability to work from the primary site in Orlando, FL is required. The role will involve global travel of approximately 25-30% to engage with international sites, suppliers, and customers.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent by offering a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package. We believe in rewarding our leaders for their contributions to our collective success.
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., restricted stock units, performance shares) designed to reward strategic success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. A robust wellness program, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and access to corporate wellness resources.
Retirement & Financial Security
A leading 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match and immediate vesting. Access to professional financial planning services.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays to support a healthy work-life balance.
Career & Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for executive development, including conferences, advanced training, and leadership programs. Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family to ensure a smooth transition to the vibrant Orlando area.
Additional Perks
Other benefits include life and disability insurance, employee discount programs, and opportunities for community involvement and corporate sponsorship.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative supply chain leader with a passion for the aerospace industry and a proven ability to drive global planning excellence, we invite you to take the next step in your career. We are seeking a candidate who not only meets the technical requirements but also possesses the vision and drive to lead our client’s operations into the future.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your specific qualifications and achievements as they relate to this role. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. To learn more about our dedicated expertise in recruiting top talent for this sector, please visit our Aerospace & Defense Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
