Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Engineering with an Automotive Supplier – Toledo, OH
JRG Partners is proud to lead the exclusive search for a transformative Vice President of Manufacturing Engineering on behalf of our client, a globally recognized Tier 1 automotive supplier. Based in the strategic automotive hub of Toledo, Ohio, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing for a company at the forefront of automotive innovation. The industry is undergoing a monumental shift towards electrification, connectivity, and autonomous driving, and this position is pivotal in ensuring our client not only keeps pace but sets new benchmarks for operational excellence, quality, and efficiency.
As the VP of Manufacturing Engineering, you will be the chief architect of the company’s production processes and technological roadmap. You will provide the strategic vision, technical expertise, and inspirational leadership required to build a world-class manufacturing engineering organization. This is not merely an oversight role; it is a hands-on, high-impact position responsible for driving innovation from the ground up. You will be tasked with transforming production capabilities, championing the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles, and fostering a culture of relentless continuous improvement across all manufacturing sites. Your influence will extend across the entire product lifecycle, from collaborating on initial design concepts to ensuring flawless, high-volume production launches.
You will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and serve as a key member of the executive leadership team. You will be entrusted with managing a significant capital budget and leading a large, multi-disciplinary team of engineers, project managers, and technicians. The ideal candidate is a seasoned automotive manufacturing expert with a proven track record of implementing large-scale change, optimizing complex processes, and building high-performing teams. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for technology and a drive to create the factory of the future, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Engineering with an Automotive Supplier – Toledo, OH
Strategic Vision & Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, forward-thinking manufacturing engineering strategy that directly supports the company’s long-term business objectives. Define a multi-year roadmap for technology adoption, process innovation, and capital investment to secure a competitive advantage.
Process Innovation & Optimization
Champion a culture of continuous improvement by deploying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies. Lead the charge in identifying and implementing advanced manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, machine vision, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality.
New Product Introduction (NPI)
Provide executive oversight for the entire NPI process from a manufacturing engineering perspective. Ensure that Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles are embedded early in the product development cycle. Guarantee robust, on-time, and on-budget launches of new vehicle platforms and components.
Team Development & Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and cultivate a world-class manufacturing engineering organization. Attract, retain, and develop top talent, fostering a collaborative, innovative, and accountable culture. Establish clear goals, provide regular feedback, and create development pathways for team members.
Capital Expenditure (CapEx) Management
Develop, justify, and manage the annual and long-range CapEx plan for all manufacturing equipment, tooling, and facility upgrades. Conduct rigorous ROI analysis to ensure investments deliver maximum value and align with strategic priorities.
Quality & Compliance Assurance
Partner closely with the Quality organization to ensure all manufacturing processes are capable, stable, and consistently produce parts that meet or exceed customer specifications. Ensure strict compliance with all relevant industry standards, particularly IATF 16949, as well as internal and customer-specific requirements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key strategic partner to other executive leaders in R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, and Finance. Foster seamless communication and collaboration to ensure alignment and drive enterprise-wide success across the entire value chain.
Operational Excellence & KPI Management
Establish, monitor, and drive improvement for key performance indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), First Time Through (FTT), scrap reduction, and manufacturing cost per unit. Utilize data analytics to make informed decisions and target improvement efforts.
Safety & Environmental Stewardship
Uphold and promote the highest standards of workplace safety and environmental responsibility. Ensure that all new equipment and process designs are inherently safe and comply with all local, state, and federal regulations.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Engineering with an Automotive Supplier – Toledo, OH
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field is required. An advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Engineering or an MBA, is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing engineering within the automotive sector, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP) with multi-site responsibility. Direct experience within a Tier 1 automotive supplier environment is essential.
Technical Proficiency
Deep and comprehensive expertise in a wide range of modern automotive manufacturing processes, such as complex assembly, CNC machining, stamping, welding (robotic/laser), and injection molding. Proven, hands-on experience implementing automation, robotics, and smart factory (Industry 4.0) solutions.
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire large, geographically dispersed teams. Must possess exceptional strategic thinking, complex problem-solving, and decisive decision-making skills. A history of successfully managing change and driving cultural transformation is critical.
Financial & Business Acumen
Strong command of financial principles, including P&L responsibility, detailed budget management, CapEx justification, and make-vs-buy analysis. Ability to translate technical initiatives into clear business cases.
Continuous Improvement Mastery
In-depth knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies. Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is highly desirable.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills. The ability to effectively communicate complex technical and strategic concepts to a wide range of audiences, from the shop floor to the executive boardroom.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the primary facility in the greater Toledo, OH area. Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally to other company sites and suppliers as needed (approximately 20-25%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive rewards package that attracts, retains, and motivates top-tier executive talent. The package for this role includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant performance-based annual bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, stock options) designed to reward both individual and company success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. The package also includes life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and access to an employee assistance program (EAP).
Retirement Savings Plan
A robust 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match to help you achieve your long-term financial goals.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive vacation allowance, paid company holidays, and sick leave to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A commitment to your ongoing growth with opportunities for executive coaching, attendance at industry conferences, and further education.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family to ensure a smooth transition to the Toledo, OH area.
Company Vehicle / Allowance
A competitive vehicle program or allowance commensurate with an executive-level position in the automotive industry.
How to Apply
This is a confidential search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary manufacturing leader with the experience and drive to excel in this critical role, we encourage you to take the next step in your career. To be considered, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments as they relate to this opportunity.
JRG Partners specializes in connecting exceptional leaders with transformative opportunities. To learn more about our deep expertise in this sector, please visit the page for JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing practice. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We look forward to hearing from you.
