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# VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace – Dayton, OH


 
VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace – Dayton, OH
Are you an innovative leader passionate about driving the future of aerospace manufacturing through digital transformation and advanced robotics? We are seeking a Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to lead cutting-edge initiatives in Dayton, OH. This is a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of aerospace production, optimize intelligent manufacturing systems, and lead automation strategies in a high-impact executive role. If you have a strong vision for Industry 4.0 and thrive in complex, technology-driven environments, this is the role for you.
Drive Innovation in Aerospace Manufacturing
A leading aerospace company based in Dayton, OH is looking for a transformative VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to spearhead its modernization strategy. The ideal candidate will have a deep background in smart manufacturing, digital twin technologies, AI/ML integration, and robotics automation within the aerospace or high-tech manufacturing sector. With a focus on scaling intelligent factory systems and operational agility, this position offers a career-defining opportunity to lead one of the industry’s most ambitious digital transformations.
Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace
Strategic Innovation & Vision:Develop and execute a comprehensive digital manufacturing strategy aligned with the company’s aerospace mission and long-term vision. Champion the integration of Industry 4.0 principles, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across all manufacturing operations.
Smart Manufacturing Leadership:Lead the deployment of advanced robotics, AI, machine learning, and automation technologies across multiple production sites. Drive the development of intelligent factory systems that enhance operational agility, product quality, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Digital Transformation Execution:Oversee the digitalization of manufacturing systems, including digital twin models, real-time data analytics, and IoT-enabled devices. Ensure seamless integration of legacy systems with next-gen digital platforms to achieve enterprise-wide visibility and control.
Operational Efficiency & Scalability:Optimize manufacturing processes through automation and digital tools to reduce downtime, increase throughput, and improve cycle times. Establish scalable frameworks to support future expansion and high-mix, low-volume production environments typical in aerospace.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:Partner with engineering, IT, supply chain, and quality teams to implement cohesive smart manufacturing initiatives. Facilitate cross-departmental alignment to ensure timely project execution and consistent operational improvements.
Talent Development & Team Leadership:Build and lead a high-performing team of digital manufacturing professionals. Attract top talent, promote a culture of learning and experimentation, and provide mentorship to cultivate technical and leadership capabilities across the organization.
Technology Roadmap & Vendor Management:Define and manage the roadmap for emerging manufacturing technologies. Evaluate and partner with external vendors, technology providers, and research institutions to pilot and scale innovative solutions.
Data-Driven Decision Making:Implement advanced analytics platforms to drive data-informed decisions across all levels of manufacturing. Use predictive maintenance, performance dashboards, and KPI tracking to enhance productivity and reduce operational risks.
Compliance & Quality Assurance:Ensure all digital and robotic systems comply with aerospace industry standards, certifications, and cybersecurity protocols. Collaborate with quality assurance teams to maintain stringent regulatory compliance and traceability.
Change Management & Organizational Readiness:Lead change management initiatives that enable smooth adoption of new technologies. Communicate a clear vision, manage stakeholder expectations, and ensure workforce readiness through training and change enablement programs.
What the Client is Looking for in You
As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace, the client is seeking a forward-thinking executive with a deep understanding of digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, and robotics automation. You should be a results-oriented leader who thrives in high-tech, fast-evolving environments and is capable of shaping strategic vision while ensuring operational excellence across complex manufacturing systems.
Expertise in Smart Manufacturing & Digital Transformation
The ideal candidate brings a strong background in digital manufacturing within the aerospace or advanced industrial sector. You should have a proven ability to implement smart factory technologies, including robotics, AI, digital twins, and IoT. Experience leading large-scale transformation projects and optimizing production environments through intelligent automation is essential.
Strategic Visionary with a Tech-Forward Mindset
You must demonstrate the ability to craft and drive long-term strategies that elevate digital maturity and manufacturing performance. The client values leaders who stay ahead of industry trends, embrace innovation, and translate emerging technologies into practical, scalable solutions that create measurable impact.
Proven Operational Leadership in Complex Environments
This role requires someone who understands the intricacies of aerospace manufacturing and can lead high-precision, mission-critical operations. You should have experience in deploying enterprise-level automation systems, managing multidisciplinary teams, and aligning manufacturing strategies with overall business objectives.
Strong Technical Acumen & Data-Driven Decision Making
A solid foundation in engineering, systems architecture, or advanced manufacturing technologies is highly valued. The client is looking for a leader who can leverage real-time data, analytics, and predictive tools to drive decision-making, improve quality, reduce downtime, and maximize throughput.
Ability to Lead High-Performing Teams and Drive Culture Change
Leadership and change management are key in this role. You should be able to attract, develop, and lead top-tier engineering and digital talent. The client is seeking a leader who fosters collaboration, promotes continuous improvement, and builds a culture that embraces technology-driven transformation.
Stakeholder Engagement & Cross-Functional Collaboration
The ideal candidate excels in communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and collaborating across departments. Your ability to partner with engineering, IT, quality, operations, and leadership teams will be critical to ensure alignment and successful project execution.
Commitment to Quality, Compliance & Risk Mitigation
Given the highly regulated nature of aerospace manufacturing, the client requires a leader with strong knowledge of industry compliance, cybersecurity standards, and risk management protocols. You should ensure all systems meet regulatory standards and maintain a focus on operational integrity and product traceability.
FAQs About the Role – VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace
1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing?As the Vice President, you will lead the digital transformation and smart manufacturing strategy across aerospace operations. Key responsibilities include deploying robotics and automation systems, integrating IoT and AI technologies into manufacturing processes, driving innovation and operational efficiency, managing cross-functional engineering teams, and ensuring full regulatory compliance. You will also oversee the execution of advanced manufacturing projects and collaborate with executive leadership to align initiatives with long-term business objectives.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?The ideal candidate should have significant leadership experience in digital manufacturing, preferably within the aerospace or advanced industrial sectors. A strong background in robotics, automation, systems integration, and smart factory technologies is essential. Proven experience in leading large-scale transformation initiatives, improving production performance, and managing high-tech engineering teams is highly valued. A degree in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related field is required; an advanced degree (MS, MBA, or PhD) is preferred.
3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?The client is seeking a forward-thinking, tech-savvy leader who can combine strategic vision with hands-on technical expertise. You should possess excellent problem-solving abilities, strong communication skills, and a collaborative leadership style. Experience in change management, team building, and fostering innovation is critical, along with a passion for emerging technologies and continuous improvement.
4. What challenges can I expect in this role?You may face challenges such as integrating legacy systems with modern technologies, ensuring cybersecurity in connected manufacturing environments, overcoming resistance to change, and aligning digital initiatives with production goals. Navigating compliance in a highly regulated aerospace setting and driving ROI for advanced tech investments will also be key responsibilities.
5. What is the expected impact of the VP on the organization’s performance?Your leadership will play a central role in transforming the company’s manufacturing capabilities, improving productivity, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality. The successful implementation of smart manufacturing initiatives is expected to drive competitive advantage, strengthen operational resilience, and support the company’s long-term innovation roadmap.
6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?The organization promotes a culture of innovation, precision, and collaboration. It values continuous learning, technical excellence, and cross-functional teamwork. You’ll work in a highly dynamic environment that encourages experimentation, digital exploration, and impactful leadership to keep the company at the forefront of aerospace manufacturing.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace, you can expect a robust and rewarding compensation package that reflects the strategic importance and technical complexity of this leadership position. The remuneration for this role is designed to attract elite talent capable of driving digital transformation in aerospace manufacturing and typically includes the following components:
1. Base Salary
The base salary for a VP in digital manufacturing within the aerospace sector generally ranges from $220,000 to $350,000 annually, depending on the size and structure of the company, geographic location, and the candidate’s experience level. Top-tier companies may offer higher base salaries for exceptional candidates with deep technical and leadership expertise.
2. Performance-Based Incentives
Performance bonuses are typically awarded based on the achievement of key metrics such as manufacturing efficiency, cost savings, technological implementation, and project milestones. These bonuses can range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, depending on individual and organizational performance.
3. Equity & Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)
For roles tied closely to innovation and strategic growth, companies often include equity-based compensation such as stock options or Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). Long-term incentive plans may reward sustained operational success, digital maturity milestones, or shareholder value creation. This component can significantly boost total earnings over time.
4. Executive Benefits & Perks
As a senior executive, you will receive a comprehensive suite of benefits including:


Premium health, dental, and vision insurance


401(k) with company match or executive pension plans


Executive health & wellness programs


Annual executive physicals and mental health support


Company car or travel allowance for business trips


Technology stipends or home office setup assistance


5. Signing Bonus & Relocation Support
Qualified candidates relocating to Dayton, OH, may be eligible for a signing bonus and relocation package, typically ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, depending on the move complexity and candidate seniority.
Total Compensation Outlook
When factoring in base salary, bonuses, equity, and benefits, the total compensation package can range from $300,000 to $700,000+ annually. Candidates with a strong record of digital transformation and smart manufacturing leadership may command packages at the higher end of this range or beyond, particularly in innovation-focused aerospace firms.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary leader with a deep understanding of digital transformation, robotics, and smart manufacturing in the aerospace industry, we encourage you to apply for the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing role in Dayton, OH. This is a unique opportunity to spearhead cutting-edge innovation and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aerospace manufacturing.
To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter outlining your leadership experience in digital manufacturing, automation technologies, robotics integration, smart factory systems, and cross-functional team management. Emphasize your contributions to improving manufacturing efficiency, operational excellence, and successful digital transformation initiatives.
This role presents a high-impact career path for strategic thinkers and technical leaders eager to lead at the intersection of innovation, engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Apply now to drive the future of aerospace as a VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing in Dayton, OH.
For more details or to explore similar executive opportunities, please visit our Aerospace Executive Leadership Page.
Tags:Vice President of Manufacturing | Digital Transformation | Smart Factory | Robotics Integration | Aerospace Manufacturing Leadership | Operational Excellence | Innovation Strategy | Engineering Executive | Advanced Manufacturing | Dayton Ohio Jobs