Vice President of Operations

Hitachi Careers•Auburn Hills, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a strategic, results-driven Vice President of Operations to lead and oversee all operational functions within its Detroit Division. This executive leader will be responsible for driving operational excellence across a highly technical, engineered-to-order automation business, ensuring the successful execution of complex automation projects from design through manufacturing, integration, and customer deployment. The role involves strategic leadership, manufacturing and production management, continuous improvement, talent leadership, and cross-functional business partnership. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field, with a Master's degree preferred. A minimum of 15 years of progressive manufacturing and operations leadership experience, including 8-10 years in senior management roles, is required. Experience in the automation and automotive industries is strongly preferred. The position is onsite in Auburn Hills, MI, with up to 30% travel required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field required.
Minimum of 15 years of progressive manufacturing and operations leadership experience, including significant experience leading large, complex operations teams.
Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in senior manufacturing or operations management roles.
Experience within the automation industry strongly preferred.
Automotive industry experience strongly preferred, including experience supporting OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, or advanced manufacturing operations.
Proven success managing large-scale manufacturing operations within complex, highly regulated environments.
Demonstrated experience developing and implementing operational strategies that drive business growth and operational excellence.
Strong executive leadership capabilities with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop teams at all levels of the organization.
Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Deep knowledge of manufacturing principles, processes, and technologies.
Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Strong understanding of quality management systems, including ISO 9001 and related standards.
Experience utilizing ERP systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), operational reporting tools, and data analytics platforms.
Demonstrated success leading operational transformations and change management initiatives.
Strong project management and organizational leadership skills.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, cost management, and operational performance analysis.
Knowledge of health, safety, and regulatory requirements within manufacturing environments.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree (MBA or related discipline) preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute manufacturing and operational strategies aligned with company goals, growth objectives, and customer requirements.
Provide overall leadership of the Detroit Division's manufacturing and operational functions, ensuring efficient execution of projects and production activities.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and profitability.
Drive operational excellence initiatives focused on efficiency, scalability, customer satisfaction, and financial performance.
Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and capacity management.
Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency, productivity, and profitability targets are consistently achieved or exceeded.
Implement and maintain robust quality control systems to ensure products and solutions meet or exceed customer expectations and industry standards.
Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Logistics, and Project Management teams to ensure seamless project execution and operational alignment.
Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and operational optimization.
Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives across the division.
Leverage data analytics, emerging technologies, and automation tools to improve operational performance and decision-making.
Stay current on industry trends, manufacturing technologies, and best practices to maintain a competitive advantage.
Build, develop, and lead a high-performing operations organization focused on accountability, engagement, and results.
Attract, retain, coach, and mentor operational leaders and manufacturing professionals.
Foster a culture centered on safety, quality, innovation, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.
Lead workforce planning, organizational development, and succession planning efforts within the division.
Partner with Sales, Finance, Engineering, and Commercial leaders to align operational execution with customer demand, sales forecasts, and financial objectives.
Support strategic business planning and contribute to divisional and enterprise-level decision making.
Ensure alignment between operational priorities and overall business strategy.
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, industry standards, and quality management systems.
Maintain adherence to ISO certifications, quality standards, and customer-specific requirements.
Promote and enforce a strong safety culture throughout all operations.
Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations and practices.