Vice President of Operations

HGC•Erlanger, KY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Stewart Iron Works, a 150-year-old leader in architectural metals and custom fabrication, is seeking a Vice President of Operations to run the company and guide our next chapter. If you’re a hands-on executive who knows how to run a small company with clarity, discipline, and heart, we want to meet you. A LEGACY OF BUILDING CAREERS At Stewart Iron Works, we carry forward a proud tradition of artistry in metalwork and fabrication. We believe exceptional work begins with people who share our values and commitment to excellence. We recognize that our employees are more than professionals; they’re individuals with families, passions, and full lives beyond work. That’s why we emphasize balance, supporting both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Our culture thrives on celebrating shared victories, encouraging growth, and making a lasting impact on our clients and community. At SIW, we’re not just crafting metalwork; we’re building a legacy of quality, integrity, and purpose.

Requirements

10+ years in fabrication, metals, construction, or custom manufacturing
Strong experience running operations or leading a small/mid-sized company
Solid financial management skills — budgets, forecasting, job costing, margin management
Experience leading project managers, shop teams, and field crews
Clear communication, steady leadership, and strong accountability instincts
Ability to work onsite daily and visit local project sites as needed

Responsibilities

Lead the entire company’s operations, performance, and organizational health
Set annual goals, priorities, and long-term direction aligned with SIW’s capabilities and craft
Own financial execution across the business, including forecasting, budgeting, backlog planning, job costing, and margin protection
Oversee all project delivery functions: estimating support, project management, detailing, fabrication, field installation, and closeout
Build and strengthen processes for scheduling, workflow, communication, and accountability across shop and field
Monitor execution on high-risk or complex projects and step in when needed to ensure safety, quality, and production
Drive a proactive safety culture and ensure all shop and field work meets internal and OSHA standards
Establish and maintain clear quality expectations — from drawings and materials to installation and final finish
Develop and mentor managers, shop leaders, and field leaders; lead performance reviews, hiring decisions, and growth planning
Improve company-wide systems, SOPs, and tools to support scalability and operational clarity
Partner with clients, GCs, architects, and partners; support estimating and preconstruction by evaluating project fit, risk, and resource needs
Serve as the primary decision-maker for daily operations and the key driver of company stability, culture, and accountability