Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Operations with an Aerospace Supplier – Wichita, KS
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, forward-thinking aerospace supplier in their search for a transformative Vice President of Manufacturing Operations. Based in the heart of America’s aviation hub, Wichita, Kansas—the “Air Capital of the World”—this is a career-defining opportunity to lead and shape the entire manufacturing landscape of a company renowned for its innovation, quality, and commitment to excellence. Our client is a critical partner to the world’s leading commercial and defense aviation manufacturers, producing complex components and assemblies that are essential to modern flight.
As the VP of Manufacturing Operations, you will be the strategic architect and hands-on leader responsible for all production-related activities. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will have full autonomy and accountability for driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality are not just met, but exceeded.
This is not merely a management role; it is a leadership position that demands a visionary who can anticipate industry trends, implement cutting-edge technologies, and inspire a large, multi-disciplinary team to achieve unprecedented levels of performance. You will be instrumental in scaling operations, optimizing resource allocation, and directly contributing to the company’s profitability and long-term strategic objectives. Your leadership will ensure that our client continues to deliver on its promise of world-class products, on time, every time, solidifying its position as an indispensable part of the global aerospace supply chain.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Operations with an Aerospace Supplier – Wichita, KS
The Vice President of Manufacturing Operations will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, overseeing the end-to-end production process. Success in this role requires a blend of strategic vision, financial acumen, and a deep, practical understanding of modern manufacturing principles.
Strategic Leadership and Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive manufacturing strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business goals. Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, setting clear targets for production, quality, cost, and safety. Lead long-range capacity planning, facility layout optimization, and capital expenditure projects to support future growth and technological advancement.
Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement
Champion a culture of relentless improvement across all manufacturing functions. Drive the implementation and mastery of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement tools. Lead initiatives such as Kaizen events, value stream mapping, 5S, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to eliminate waste, reduce cycle times, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Production and Plant Management
Assume ultimate responsibility for all plant operations, including fabrication, machining, assembly, finishing, and testing. Ensure production schedules are met to satisfy customer demand while optimizing for efficiency and cost. Implement robust systems for tracking and reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs), using data to drive decision-making and performance management.
World-Class Quality and Safety Culture
Uphold and advance the company’s commitment to uncompromising quality and safety. Ensure strict adherence to AS9100 standards and all customer-specific quality requirements. Foster a proactive, zero-incident safety culture through continuous training, risk assessment, and employee engagement. Guarantee compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA and environmental standards.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and empower a large team of manufacturing professionals, including Directors, Plant Managers, and front-line supervisors. Cultivate a high-performance, collaborative environment that attracts, retains, and develops top talent. Establish clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and build robust succession plans for key operational roles.
Financial and Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the annual manufacturing operating budget and capital plan. Maintain full P&L responsibility for the operations division. Drive cost-reduction initiatives without compromising quality or safety. Analyze financial data and operational metrics to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
Supply Chain and Inventory Management
Collaborate closely with the Vice President of Supply Chain to ensure the timely availability of materials and components. Drive strategies to optimize inventory levels, reduce carrying costs, and mitigate supply chain risks. Participate in supplier evaluation and development to ensure the supply base meets rigorous performance standards.
Technology Integration and Innovation
Stay abreast of emerging manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, IoT, and advanced data analytics. Champion the evaluation and implementation of new systems and equipment that can provide a significant competitive advantage in terms of efficiency, quality, and capability.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Operations with an Aerospace Supplier – Wichita, KS
This senior executive role requires a seasoned and accomplished manufacturing leader with a proven track record of success within the demanding aerospace and defense sector. The ideal candidate will possess a unique combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and inspirational leadership.
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline (e.g., Mechanical, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering) or Operations Management is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred and will be a significant differentiator.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in a complex, high-mix manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director of Operations, Plant Manager, VP of Manufacturing). Demonstrable experience managing a large, multi-shift workforce and P&L responsibility is essential.
Mandatory Industry Expertise
Extensive, hands-on experience within the aerospace and defense manufacturing industry is a non-negotiable requirement. The candidate must have a deep understanding of complex machining (e.g., multi-axis CNC), fabrication, special processes, and assembly of metallic and composite structural components for aircraft.
Regulatory and Quality System Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of aerospace quality management systems, particularly AS9100. A thorough understanding of FAA regulations, ITAR compliance, and customer-specific requirements from major OEMs (e.g., Boeing, Airbus, Spirit AeroSystems) is critical.
Lean/Six Sigma Mastery
Proven, hands-on experience leading a successful Lean transformation. Certification as a Lean Expert or Six Sigma Black Belt is highly desirable. Must be able to demonstrate tangible results from continuous improvement initiatives, such as significant reductions in cost, lead time, and scrap rates.
Leadership and Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to inspire trust, build consensus, and drive organizational change. Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information to the executive team, customers, and employees at all levels.
Analytical and Financial Acumen
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset. Must be highly proficient in financial analysis, budgeting, and cost management. Extensive experience working with modern ERP/MRP systems is required.
Location and Commitment
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the Wichita, Kansas metropolitan area. This is a hands-on, on-site leadership role requiring a significant presence on the manufacturing floor.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. We believe in rewarding leadership that drives results and fosters a positive, productive culture.
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience, coupled with a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (LTIP) that aligns your success with the company’s growth.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. The package also includes robust life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability coverage.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan featuring a strong company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family to ensure a smooth transition to the vibrant Wichita community.
Professional Growth
A commitment to your ongoing professional development, with opportunities for executive coaching, industry conference attendance, and continuing education.
Impact and Legacy
The unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting impact on a key player in the global aerospace industry and build a legacy of operational excellence.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive retained search firm for this critical executive position. If you are a visionary manufacturing leader with the specified aerospace industry experience and a passion for driving excellence, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please learn more about our Industrial & Manufacturing executive search practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can lead our client’s operations into the future.
