Role Overview for VP, Global Operations with a Major Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to lead the exclusive, confidential search for a transformative Vice President of Global Operations on behalf of a prestigious, globally recognized manufacturing leader headquartered in the industrial heartland of Detroit, MI. This is a paramount executive leadership position for a visionary operator who can architect and execute a world-class global operations strategy that drives sustainable growth, profitability, and market leadership. Our client is a dominant force in their industry, known for innovation, quality, and a commitment to excellence that spans decades. They are seeking an executive who can honor this legacy while propelling the organization into the future of manufacturing.
As the VP of Global Operations, you will be a cornerstone of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. You will hold ultimate responsibility for the entire spectrum of the company’s manufacturing and supply chain activities across a complex network of international facilities. This role is not merely about maintaining the status quo; it is about strategic transformation.
You will be challenged to optimize every facet of the operation, from raw material procurement to final product delivery, implementing cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality. You will lead a vast, multicultural team of directors, plant managers, and operations professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaborative success. This position requires a leader with a profound understanding of global market dynamics, geopolitical factors affecting supply chains, and the financial acumen to make decisions that positively impact the bottom line. You will be the driving force ensuring that the company’s operational capabilities are not just a support function, but a distinct competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Global Operations with a Major Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
The VP of Global Operations will have a broad and impactful mandate. Success in this role will be measured by the ability to deliver on the following key responsibilities:
Strategic Planning & Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive global operations strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term corporate objectives. Lead the annual operating plan (AOP) process for all global operations, setting ambitious yet achievable goals for production, quality, cost, and safety.
Manufacturing & Production Oversight
Assume full responsibility for the performance of all manufacturing plants worldwide. Drive operational excellence by championing and deploying best practices in production management, capacity planning, and resource allocation. Ensure production targets are met on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Supply Chain & Logistics Mastery
Architect and manage a resilient, efficient, and cost-effective end-to-end global supply chain. Oversee strategic sourcing, procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and global logistics to ensure an uninterrupted flow of materials and finished goods. Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks.
Financial & Budgetary Leadership
Develop and manage the multi-million-dollar global operations budget, exercising rigorous financial discipline. Hold full P&L responsibility for all manufacturing sites and related operational functions. Identify and execute significant cost-saving initiatives and capital investment projects to improve profitability and ROI.
Continuous Improvement & Lean Implementation
Champion a culture of continuous improvement across the organization. Lead the deployment of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies to eliminate waste, streamline processes, and enhance productivity.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Uphold and advance the company’s reputation for superior quality. Ensure all products and processes meet or exceed stringent internal standards and external regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, IATF). Oversee the global quality management system (QMS).
Technology & Industry 4.0 Integration
Drive the operational technology roadmap. Evaluate and implement next-generation manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, IoT, and data analytics, to create ‘smart factories’ that provide a competitive edge.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, inspire, and mentor a high-performing global operations organization. Attract, retain, and develop top-tier talent. Foster a safe, inclusive, and performance-driven culture where employees are empowered and engaged.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key strategic partner to other executive leaders in R&D, Sales, Marketing, and Finance. Ensure seamless collaboration on new product introductions (NPI), demand forecasting, and strategic business initiatives.
Requirements for the VP, Global Operations with a Major Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
We are seeking a seasoned and accomplished executive with a proven track record of leading complex manufacturing operations on a global scale. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing), Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., VP of Operations, Senior Director) with direct responsibility for multiple international plant locations.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience within a complex, high-volume manufacturing environment such as automotive, industrial equipment, aerospace, or consumer durables is essential.
Operational Excellence Acumen
Demonstrated mastery of operational excellence frameworks, including Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma (Black Belt certification is a plus), and Total Quality Management (TQM). Proven success in transforming operations and achieving significant improvements in key performance indicators (KPIs).
Global Leadership
Extensive experience managing large, geographically dispersed, and culturally diverse teams. A true global mindset with an understanding of international business practices, regulations, and logistics.
Financial Acumen
Sophisticated financial skills with extensive experience in P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and capital expenditure planning. The ability to build a compelling business case for strategic investments.
Strategic Vision
The ability to think strategically and holistically, translating broad corporate goals into clear, actionable operational plans. A forward-thinker who anticipates future trends and challenges.
Communication & Influence
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to influence and align stakeholders across all levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the Board of Directors.
Travel
Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required to oversee global sites and engage with key partners (approximately 25-30%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the very best executive talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a compelling long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, restricted stock units).
Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your family. Comprehensive wellness programs, including an executive physical program.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match and potential for profit sharing.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and a commitment to supporting executive work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family to the Detroit metropolitan area.
Professional Growth
Opportunities for continued professional development, including executive coaching, industry conference attendance, and board service opportunities.
Additional Perks
Executive car allowance, life and disability insurance, and other perquisites commensurate with a senior executive role.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. We are seeking a world-class operations leader who is ready to make a lasting impact on a global manufacturing powerhouse. If your experience and aspirations align with the challenges and opportunities of this role, we invite you to begin a confidential discussion with us.
To submit your application and learn more about our dedicated expertise in this sector, please visit our Manufacturing & Operations Executive Search practice area. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.
