VP of Manufacturing / Operations

VDS Consulting Group • Chicago, IL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Value Driven Solutions (VDS) is looking for a VP of Manufacturing/Operations to join their interim executive bench. This role will deploy on-site at a PE-backed middle-market manufacturing client. The VP of Manufacturing/Operations will be responsible for multi-site performance, deploying the Value-Driven Approach® across the enterprise, and driving measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and EBITDA. The ideal candidate will enjoy solving complex operational challenges, have the ability to assess multi-site performance, weigh strategic options, and deliver value-creation outcomes. They will apply their command of Lean, Six Sigma, and Toyota Production System principles and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Requirements

• 20+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership, with 5+ years as a VP or higher in a multi-site environment
• Documented track record of delivering double-digit EBITDA improvement in a middle-market or PE-backed setting
• Deep fluency in Lean Manufacturing, Toyota Production System, and Six Sigma; certifications a plus
• Experience leading through transformations, turnarounds, or post-acquisition integrations
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related discipline; advanced degree (MBA, MS) preferred
• Prior interim or fractional executive experience preferred
• Industry depth in two or more of: aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, food, industrial, or medical device

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end manufacturing P&L across one or more sites, including budget, capital plan, headcount, and operating KPIs.
• Lead the senior operations team — Plant Managers, Engineering, Supply Chain, EHS, Quality — and build a bench of next-level leaders.
• Deploy Lean, Six Sigma, and Everything OpEx® methodologies to compress cost, shorten lead time, and expand margin.
• Stand up daily, weekly, and monthly operating cadences that make performance gaps visible and force rapid countermeasures.
• Drive footprint, capacity, and capital decisions; present recommendations to the executive team and board.
• Partner with the CFO to translate operational improvements into reported earnings and working capital reduction.

Benefits

• Competitive contract rates commensurate with experience and seniority
• Structured engagement support through a dedicated VDS Engagement Partner
• Proven methodology and toolkits including the Value-Driven Approach® and Everything OpEx® frameworks
• Continued business development between engagements
• Access to our 360° Client Alignment® process
• Deployment within days of engagement start
• Exposure to diverse industries (aerospace, food, consumer goods, industrial products, medical device, semiconductor, and battery manufacturing)
• Structured Contract-to-Hire path that lets both Expert and client validate fit before conversion

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive