Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Excellence with an Automotive Supplier – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized, Tier-1 automotive supplier in their search for a transformative Vice President of Manufacturing Excellence. Based in the automotive heartland of Detroit, MI, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing for a company at the forefront of automotive innovation. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader, a master of operational efficiency, and a passionate advocate for continuous improvement. You will be responsible for architecting and deploying a world-class manufacturing strategy across the company’s global footprint, ensuring that every facility operates at the pinnacle of safety, quality, and productivity.
This is not merely a role about maintaining standards; it is about setting new ones. You will champion the integration of Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and cutting-edge Industry 4.0 technologies to create a truly interconnected, intelligent, and agile manufacturing ecosystem. As the VP of Manufacturing Excellence, you will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and work alongside the executive team to drive strategic initiatives that enhance profitability, reduce waste, and solidify the company’s position as a market leader.
Your leadership will directly impact the organization’s ability to meet the demanding needs of its OEM customers, navigate complex supply chains, and deliver products that define the next generation of mobility. We are seeking a change agent who can inspire teams, challenge the status quo, and build a sustainable culture of excellence that permeates every level of the manufacturing organization.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Excellence with an Automotive Supplier – Detroit, MI
Global Manufacturing Strategy
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global manufacturing strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business objectives. This includes footprint optimization, capacity planning, and technology roadmap development.
Operational Excellence (OpEx) Leadership
Serve as the chief architect and champion of the company’s Operational Excellence program. Drive the universal adoption of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, Kaizen, 5S, TPM, and other continuous improvement tools across all manufacturing sites worldwide.
Performance Management & KPIs
Establish, monitor, and drive improvement for key performance indicators (KPIs) including Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), First Time Through (FTT), safety (TRIR), quality (PPM), cost per unit, and on-time delivery. Implement robust data analysis and reporting systems to ensure visibility and accountability.
Process Standardization & Best Practices
Lead the standardization of manufacturing processes, workflows, and best practices across the global plant network. Facilitate a culture of knowledge sharing to ensure that innovations and improvements are replicated effectively.
Technology & Automation Integration
Spearhead the evaluation and implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies, including robotics, automation, IoT, and data analytics (Industry 4.0). Develop business cases for capital investments that yield significant improvements in efficiency, quality, and safety.
Leadership & Talent Development
Mentor, coach, and develop a high-performing team of regional and plant-level operations leaders. Foster a culture of empowerment, accountability, and continuous learning to build a strong leadership pipeline.
Quality & Compliance
Collaborate closely with the VP of Quality to ensure all manufacturing operations adhere to the highest quality standards, including the stringent IATF 16949 quality management system standards. Ensure a state of constant audit-readiness and drive a zero-defect mindset.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key partner to other executive leaders in Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, and Human Resources to ensure seamless integration of manufacturing strategies with broader business functions. Drive alignment on new product introductions (NPI), supply chain optimization, and financial planning.
Safety Culture
Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring all facilities meet or exceed regulatory requirements and internal standards. Drive initiatives that promote a proactive, zero-incident safety environment.
Financial Acumen
Oversee the manufacturing budget, manage operational costs, and lead the capital expenditure (CapEx) planning process for manufacturing operations. Ensure all activities deliver a strong return on investment and contribute to the company’s financial health.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Excellence with an Automotive Supplier – Detroit, MI
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field is required. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or an advanced technical degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior, multi-site leadership role (e.g., Director of Operations, VP of Manufacturing) within the Tier-1 automotive supply industry.
Lean/Six Sigma Expertise
Deep, demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies. Certification as a Lean Expert or Six Sigma Black Belt/Master Black Belt is highly desirable. Must have a proven track record of leading successful, large-scale Lean transformations.
Global Operations Management
Extensive experience managing manufacturing operations across multiple countries and cultures. Must possess a strong understanding of the nuances of global logistics, labor relations, and regulatory environments.
Technical Acumen
Strong familiarity with modern automotive manufacturing processes, including assembly, machining, stamping, injection molding, and advanced robotics/automation. Experience with Industry 4.0 implementation is a significant asset.
Strategic Leadership
Proven ability to think strategically, develop long-term plans, and translate vision into actionable, measurable results. Must be able to influence and gain buy-in from stakeholders at all levels, from the shop floor to the boardroom.
Financial & Business Acumen
Demonstrated P&L responsibility for a significant manufacturing operation. Must possess strong skills in budgeting, forecasting, capital planning, and financial analysis.
Communication Skills
Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to a diverse audience is essential.
Problem-Solving Skills
Superior analytical and data-driven problem-solving skills. Must be adept at identifying root causes, developing innovative solutions, and driving them to completion.
Location
Ability to be based in the greater Detroit, MI area and travel globally as required (estimated 30-40%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Executive Base Salary
A competitive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Annual Performance Bonus
A significant annual bonus potential based on the achievement of individual and company performance goals.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Participation in the company’s equity or long-term cash incentive program, providing a stake in the company’s continued success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Executive Benefits
Includes an executive car allowance, supplemental life insurance, and disability coverage.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Paid Time Off
A generous vacation, holiday, and personal time off policy.
Professional Development
Support for continued learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a results-oriented manufacturing leader with a passion for excellence and a track record of transformative success in the automotive industry, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the automotive and industrial sectors. To learn more about our expertise and explore other opportunities, please visit JRG Partners’ Industrial and Manufacturing Practice Area. We look forward to connecting with you.
