Vice President Manufacturing Operations (A&D)

Location: New Haven, United States About Our Client Our client is a global leader in precision-engineered components and systems serving the aerospace, defense, and advanced industrial sectors. With a longstanding heritage of manufacturing excellence, the company has built a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. Privately held and values-driven, the organization operates multiple manufacturing and engineering facilities worldwide, supporting leading OEMs and tier-one suppliers on some of the industry’s most advanced programs. Known for operational discipline and long-term partnerships, it combines the stability of a mature enterprise with the agility of a modern, high-growth manufacturer. The Opportunity We are looking for a Vice President- Manufacturing Operations to join the leadership team and assume responsibility for multiple operating divisions within the company’s aerospace and defense portfolio. This position offers exceptional growth potential for an accomplished manufacturing executive with a proven record of leading complex, multi-site operations. This is an onsite role with regular travel required 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 Requirements 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 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 Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. 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