Vice President Manufacturing Operations (A&D)

Keller Executive Search; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual performance bonus

Comprehensive health coverage

401(k)

Relocation support

Job summary

Keller Executive Search is recruiting for a Vice President – Manufacturing Operations in New Haven, Connecticut. This role requires a leader with extensive experience in aerospace and defense manufacturing, ensuring financial performance and operational excellence across multiple divisions.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, strong financial skills, and a proven track record of managing large teams and complex operations.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations.
• Aerospace or defense manufacturing background required.
• Proven success in full P&L responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Full P&L accountability for assigned business units.
• Drive operational excellence across manufacturing sites.
• Develop and execute business strategies for growth.

Skills

Operational excellence

Financial oversight

Lean and Six Sigma methodologies

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Advanced business education (MBA or equivalent)

Job description

About the Client

Our client is a global leader in precision‑engineered components and systems serving the aerospace, defense, and advanced industrial sectors.

Privately held and values‑driven, the organization operates multiple manufacturing and engineering facilities worldwide, supporting leading OEMs and tier‑one suppliers on advanced programs.

Opportunity

Vice President – Manufacturing Operations, responsible for multiple operating divisions within the company’s aerospace and defense portfolio. This is an onsite role with regular travel between manufacturing sites.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Full P&L accountability for assigned business units, ensuring financial performance, cost efficiency, and margin optimization
• Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across multiple manufacturing sites
• Lead initiatives in production performance, supply chain management, and process optimization
• Ensure compliance with industry quality standards and regulatory requirements

Strategic Growth

• Develop and execute business strategies that align with enterprise objectives and support sustainable growth
• Identify opportunities for market expansion, new customer engagement, and strategic partnerships
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams in engineering, sales, and program management to accelerate innovation and delivery

People Leadership

• Build and develop high‑performing teams across multiple locations
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and servant leadership
• Promote talent development, succession readiness, and organizational capability building

Financial Stewardship

• Deliver consistent, data‑driven performance against ambitious growth targets
• Maintain rigorous financial oversight and forecasting accuracy
• Present operational results and strategic insights to the executive team with clarity and impact

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (required); Advanced business education (MBA or equivalent) preferred
• Industry Experience: Aerospace or defense manufacturing background required; Deep understanding of precision machining, component manufacturing, or engineered systems; Demonstrated success in highly regulated, quality‑driven production environments; Experience managing multi‑site operations and diverse product portfolios
• Leadership Experience: Minimum 20 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations; Proven success in senior operational or general management roles with full P&L responsibility
• Technical & Business Acumen: Strong financial and analytical skills with a strategic mindset; Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies; Ability to translate operational metrics into strategic decisions

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience (range: $250,000–$300,000)
• Annual performance bonus
• Long‑term incentive or equity participation
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Paid time off, family leave, and relocation support

Equal Employment Opportunity

Both the client and the recruiting agency are Equal Opportunity Employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or protected veterans status.