Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Operations with a Defense Contractor – Washington, DC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 defense contractor in their search for a visionary and results-driven Vice President of Manufacturing Operations. This executive leadership position, based in the strategic hub of Washington, DC, is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned manufacturing professional to shape the future of production for critical national security programs. Our client is a globally recognized leader in developing and manufacturing advanced technological systems for defense, aerospace, and intelligence applications. They are renowned for their commitment to innovation, quality, and mission success.
As the Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, you will hold the ultimate responsibility for the entire production lifecycle across multiple facilities. You will be the strategic architect of a world-class manufacturing organization, tasked with ensuring that complex, high-stakes products are delivered on time, within budget, and to the most stringent quality standards in the industry. This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic one that requires a forward-thinking leader who can balance day-to-day execution with long-term capacity planning, technological investment, and workforce development.
You will be instrumental in driving a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to safety and compliance. Your leadership will directly impact our client’s ability to support the warfighter and maintain a technological edge in a rapidly evolving global landscape. You will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, collaborating with peers in Engineering, Program Management, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless integration and flawless program execution from concept to delivery.
The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of the defense contracting environment, coupled with a proven track record of leading large-scale, complex manufacturing operations. You are a leader who inspires excellence, fosters innovation, and builds high-performing teams capable of overcoming significant challenges. If you are ready to apply your expertise to a mission that matters and lead a critical component of a respected defense organization, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Operations with a Defense Contractor – Washington, DC
Strategic Manufacturing Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive manufacturing strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business objectives. Drive initiatives related to capacity planning, facility layout, capital equipment investment, and technology roadmaps to support future growth and program wins.
Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement
Champion and implement a robust continuous improvement culture across all manufacturing sites. Utilize methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints to optimize production processes, reduce waste, enhance productivity, and drive down costs without compromising quality or safety.
Production Oversight and Execution
Assume full accountability for all production activities, ensuring that manufacturing goals for safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) are consistently achieved. Oversee production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management to meet demanding program milestones and customer delivery schedules.
Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance
Uphold the highest standards of quality and compliance in a heavily regulated environment. Ensure strict adherence to AS9100D, ISO 9001, and all relevant government regulations, including ITAR, FAR, and DFARS. Lead the manufacturing organization through internal and external audits successfully.
Supply Chain Collaboration
Partner closely with the Vice President of Supply Chain to ensure the timely availability of materials, components, and services. Contribute to strategies for supplier performance management, inventory optimization, and risk mitigation within the supply base.
Financial and Budgetary Management
Develop and manage the annual manufacturing operating budget and capital expenditure plan. Provide accurate forecasting, monitor financial performance, and lead cost-reduction initiatives to improve profitability and operational efficiency. Report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to the executive team.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and empower a large, multi-disciplinary team of manufacturing professionals, including site directors, plant managers, engineers, and production staff. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth. Develop a robust talent pipeline and succession plan for key leadership roles within the organization.
New Product Introduction (NPI)
Collaborate with Engineering and Program Management teams to ensure smooth and efficient transition of new products from design to full-rate production. Champion Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles early in the product development lifecycle.
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)
Promote and enforce a world-class safety culture. Ensure all manufacturing operations comply with company and governmental HSE standards and regulations, striving for a zero-incident workplace.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Operations with a Defense Contractor – Washington, DC
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 a Master of Science (MS) in a relevant discipline is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior executive capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP) with P&L responsibility for a significant manufacturing organization.
Industry Expertise
Non-negotiable requirement for extensive experience within the Aerospace & Defense (A&D) industry. Must have a deep and practical understanding of defense program lifecycles, government contracting, and the unique challenges of manufacturing complex, low-volume, high-mix defense systems.
Technical Acumen
Demonstrated expertise in deploying continuous improvement tools and principles, including Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt certification is a plus), and cellular manufacturing. Proficient with modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth, hands-on knowledge of quality management systems and standards, specifically AS9100 and ISO 9001. Thorough understanding of U.S. Government regulations, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
Security Clearance
Candidates must be U.S. Citizens. The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret (or higher) security clearance is a prerequisite for this position. An existing, active clearance is a significant advantage.
Leadership and Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the proven ability to lead, influence, and build consensus across all levels of a complex organization. Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to executive leadership, customers, and government representatives.
Strategic and Financial Acumen
Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate business goals into actionable manufacturing plans. Proven experience in developing and managing large, complex budgets and making data-driven financial decisions.
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. This includes:
- A competitive executive base salary and performance-based annual bonus structure.
- Long-Term Incentive Program (e.g., stock options, performance shares).
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans effective from day one.
- Generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with a substantial company match.
- Significant paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Support for professional development, including executive coaching and tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees or certifications.
- A comprehensive relocation package for qualified candidates and their families.
- The invaluable opportunity to contribute directly to programs of national importance and work with cutting-edge technology.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is conducting this executive search on an exclusive basis for our client. All applications and inquiries will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. If you are a transformative manufacturing leader with the requisite defense industry experience and a passion for excellence, we invite you to submit your application for consideration.
To learn more about our expertise in this sector and to submit your resume, please visit the JRG Partners’ Industrial and Manufacturing practice area page. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exceptional opportunity.
