VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace – St. Louis, MO

Are you an innovative leader passionate about the future of advanced manufacturing and robotics in the aerospace industry? We are seeking a Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to drive transformative change at a leading aerospace company based in St. Louis, MO. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity to integrate cutting-edge technologies, optimize production systems, and lead smart manufacturing strategies that define the next generation of aerospace innovation.

Shape the Future of Aerospace Manufacturing in St. Louis

A trailblazing aerospace company in St. Louis, MO is searching for a VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to lead the strategic implementation of Industry 4.0 initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in digital transformation, robotics, and intelligent automation systems within high-precision manufacturing environments. If you are a forward-thinking executive with a passion for operational excellence, digital innovation, and driving measurable results, this is your opportunity to lead at the forefront of aerospace manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace

Digital Transformation Leadership: Drive the strategic implementation of advanced digital technologies and smart manufacturing practices across aerospace production lines. Lead innovation in automation, robotics, AI, and IoT to create scalable, future-ready manufacturing systems.

Smart Manufacturing Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive roadmap for smart factory initiatives. Integrate cyber-physical systems, digital twins, and predictive analytics to enhance manufacturing intelligence and decision-making capabilities.

Operational Innovation & Efficiency: Oversee the digital optimization of end-to-end operations including production, quality control, and maintenance. Leverage automation and data analytics to streamline workflows, reduce downtime, and improve throughput.

Technology Integration & Systems Architecture: Collaborate with engineering, IT, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of robotics and digital platforms. Lead the adoption of MES, ERP, and other digital tools to enable agile and connected manufacturing environments.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, product development, and supply chain teams to align manufacturing capabilities with innovation goals. Ensure cross-departmental synergy in developing next-generation aerospace solutions.

Team Development & Leadership: Build and mentor a high-performing team of engineers, data scientists, and digital manufacturing experts. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving.

Change Management & Digital Culture: Champion a digital-first mindset across the organization. Lead change management initiatives to upskill workforce, encourage innovation, and drive adoption of new technologies and processes.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Implement real-time data collection and advanced analytics to monitor performance, predict outcomes, and inform strategic decisions. Use KPIs and dashboards to measure impact and track continuous improvement efforts.

Vendor & Technology Partnerships: Identify and manage relationships with external partners, vendors, and technology providers. Evaluate and adopt cutting-edge solutions that align with the company’s manufacturing and digital transformation goals.

Compliance, Quality, & Risk Management: Ensure all digital and automation initiatives comply with aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements. Establish robust cybersecurity, quality assurance, and risk mitigation protocols.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace, the client is seeking a visionary leader with a deep understanding of digital transformation and advanced manufacturing in aerospace or similarly complex industries. You should be a forward-thinking executive with a passion for innovation, automation, and operational excellence—capable of leading large-scale initiatives that drive productivity, agility, and sustainable growth.

Proven Leadership in Advanced Manufacturing & Automation

The client is looking for an accomplished executive with significant experience in digital manufacturing, robotics, and smart factory environments—ideally within the aerospace, automotive, or high-tech sectors. You should have a proven track record of deploying Industry 4.0 solutions, optimizing complex manufacturing systems, and transforming traditional operations into digitally empowered ecosystems.

Strategic Technologist with Vision for the Future

The ideal candidate will bring strategic foresight and the ability to architect scalable, future-ready digital solutions. You must be able to conceptualize and execute smart manufacturing strategies that align with enterprise goals, improve decision-making, and elevate competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.

Strong Technical and Financial Acumen

The client seeks a leader who can bridge the gap between technology and business impact. You should be adept at building business cases for digital investments, analyzing ROI, and guiding capital allocation decisions related to automation, AI, and infrastructure upgrades. A deep understanding of operational KPIs and financial performance metrics is essential.

Ability to Inspire and Lead High-Performance Technical Teams

Leadership is key to this role. You must be skilled at managing multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, data analysts, and system integrators. The client values leaders who can inspire innovation, foster collaboration across departments, and champion a continuous learning culture in technical environments.

Change Agent with a Passion for Transformation

You should bring a track record of successfully leading digital transformation initiatives from concept to execution. The client values change agents who can drive organizational alignment, manage change resistance, and embed a digital-first culture across teams and operations.

Deep Understanding of Manufacturing Systems and Emerging Technologies

Expertise in smart manufacturing platforms, robotics, MES, AI/ML, digital twins, and cloud-based infrastructure is essential. The client is looking for someone who stays ahead of technological trends and knows how to apply them effectively in complex, safety-critical manufacturing environments.

Stakeholder Management and Collaborative Leadership

You must demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally with executive leadership, production teams, IT, R&D, and external partners. The ability to align diverse stakeholders around a unified digital vision and deliver measurable results is highly valued.

Commitment to Compliance, Quality, and Risk Mitigation

Finally, the client seeks a leader with a solid understanding of aerospace industry regulations, cybersecurity, and quality control standards. You should be capable of embedding robust compliance frameworks and risk mitigation strategies into all aspects of digital operations.

FAQs About the Role – VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace

1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP in this role?
As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing, you will lead the strategic development and execution of advanced manufacturing initiatives across the organization. This includes driving the adoption of robotics, automation, AI/ML technologies, and Industry 4.0 principles to improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency. You’ll also oversee cross-functional teams, manage technology investments, ensure compliance with aerospace regulations, and align digital initiatives with long-term business objectives.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in smart manufacturing, robotics, or digital transformation within the aerospace, automotive, or advanced manufacturing sectors. A strong background in engineering, operations, or IT leadership is highly desirable. Experience deploying enterprise-scale manufacturing technologies, leading cross-functional teams, and managing complex projects is essential. An advanced degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field is preferred; an MBA is a plus.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The client seeks a strategic, tech-savvy leader who can inspire innovation, navigate change, and align diverse teams around a digital vision. You should possess strong decision-making skills, technical expertise, financial acumen, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Leadership in cross-functional collaboration, change management, and building high-performance technical teams is crucial.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
You can expect to encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies into legacy systems, navigating organizational resistance to change, aligning stakeholders on digital priorities, and ensuring regulatory compliance in a highly technical and safety-critical environment. Additionally, managing cybersecurity risks, optimizing ROI on digital investments, and driving continuous innovation will be ongoing priorities.

5. What is the expected impact of the VP on the company’s operations and growth?
Your role will be instrumental in transforming the company’s manufacturing landscape, increasing operational agility, and driving cost efficiencies through automation and smart systems. Success in this role will directly impact product delivery speed, quality, profitability, and the organization’s competitiveness in the aerospace market.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The organization promotes a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence. It values leaders who embrace digital transformation, encourage continuous learning, and foster an environment of accountability and forward thinking. The team is composed of highly skilled professionals who are passionate about shaping the future of aerospace manufacturing.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing in the Aerospace industry based in St. Louis, MO, you can expect a competitive and well-rounded compensation package, structured to reward both immediate impact and long-term strategic success. The remuneration for this role typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The annual base salary for a Vice President in advanced manufacturing and digital transformation typically ranges from $200,000 to $350,000, depending on the size of the organization, scope of responsibilities, and the candidate’s experience. Larger aerospace corporations or companies with high digital integration may offer salaries on the higher end of this spectrum.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Annual performance bonuses are a key part of this role’s compensation and are typically based on KPIs such as implementation of digital transformation initiatives, cost optimization, production efficiency, and technological innovation. Bonuses often range from 20% to 50% of the base salary and are tied to individual and company performance metrics.

3. Equity & Stock Options

Many aerospace firms offer equity-based incentives, including stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares, especially if the role has strategic impact across the organization. These long-term incentives are designed to align the VP’s interests with company performance and shareholder value and can significantly increase the total compensation package.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Executives in this role may be eligible for LTIPs that reward sustained digital innovation and operational improvements over a multi-year period. These incentives often include a mix of cash bonuses and equity rewards, based on achieving strategic objectives like cost savings, efficiency benchmarks, and technology deployment.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks

The total compensation package also includes a range of executive benefits, which may include:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) or defined benefit retirement plans with company match
Company vehicle or travel allowances
Executive wellness programs and life insurance
Professional development and education assistance
Paid relocation assistance if moving to St. Louis is required

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Support

To attract high-caliber talent, companies may offer signing bonuses ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 and comprehensive relocation packages, especially if the candidate is moving from another city or state.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, bonuses, equity, and incentives, total annual compensation for this role can range from $300,000 to $600,000+, depending on company performance and the scale of digital initiatives executed under your leadership. High-performing candidates at large firms may see even more lucrative compensation packages.

How to Apply

If you are an innovative and visionary leader with a strong background in smart manufacturing, robotics, and digital transformation, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace role based in St. Louis, MO. This is a high-impact executive opportunity to lead cutting-edge manufacturing strategies and drive operational excellence in a forward-thinking aerospace company.

To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter that highlights your expertise in:

Leading smart manufacturing initiatives
Implementing industrial automation and robotics solutions
Driving digital transformation across production ecosystems
Enhancing operational efficiency and reducing production costs
Managing cross-functional technical and engineering teams

Be sure to detail your strategic impact, leadership experience, and any successful technology deployments in aerospace or similar high-compliance industries.

This role offers a compelling career path where you’ll shape the digital future of aerospace manufacturing while working with some of the industry’s brightest minds. Apply today to become the catalyst for innovation and operational excellence in this transformative VP role!

For more information or to explore similar executive openings, visit our Aerospace & Engineering Executive Opportunities page.

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: St. Louis

VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace – St. Louis, MO