Role Purpose: This position will oversee and manage the global manufacturing operations for Humanetics – the world’s leading manufacturer and pioneer of the crash test dummy and other related crash test devices, safety equipment, software solutions and sensor technology. Reporting into the President and CEO, the VP of Operations will work closely with functional executives across the business. In this role the COO will perform a full review of current operations, processes, technology implementation and customer focus and implement programs that improve quality, productions speed, accountability and efficiency by leveraging agile methodology, lean manufacturing and data driven business systems. (S)he will be responsible for driving a culture of safety, quality, continuous improvement and accountability. (S)he will oversee department efforts to hire and retain the best, manage talent and create mentoring opportunities. This position is accountable for managing metrics, service, inventory management, safety and ultimately for understand how to deliver an extraordinary customer experience. We are seeking a dynamic, hard-working professional with a successful background in low-volume / high-complexity manufacturing operation. This person will need to have both strong analytical and communication skills, with a desire to work for a fast-paced, customer-focused organization. In addition to exceptional leadership, you must have a “roll-up your sleeves” attitude and a strong attention to detail. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following: Business leadership & Customer focusCreate, communicate and deploy effective growth strategies, technology, organizational development and SOPs through operational excellenceDirect all activities across facilities by coordinating requirements with leadership, sales, engineering, procurement, production, shipping/receiving, maintenance, quality functions and technology centers.Lead engagement with manufacturing units, R&D, marketing/sales, customer service, purchasing and distribution to ensure new products, processes, plans, promotions, and service requirements are translated into manufacturing operational plans.Meet customer requirements by directing operations according to established company policies. Minimize and resolve external business-related concerns by maintaining liaison with local and divisional quality, R&D, marketing and facility staff to investigate and resolve customer issues.Develop short- and long-term strategies and investment proposals which will allow the company to achieve competitive advantages, service leadership, and cost reductions through efficient lean manufacturing methods including automation, systems, software, and hardware. Ensure that quality, cost and production targets and metrics are identified and delivered.Provide expertise to executives in the development and implementation an overall manufacturing and related business strategy, including acquisitions, in order to support business objectives. Implement current and new business activities by developing plans and strategies to meet customer requirements; supports internal, regulatory or customer audits. Production & OperationsManage production efficiencies through cost-effective management of procurement, production planning, inventory management and labor and resources.Ensure efficient operation of all manufacturing facilities by evaluating each facility’s cost, quality and service level performance. Provide engineering and technical guidance for all facilities to meet or exceed business goals. Drive overall improvement and growth strategies at each facility. Monitor the financial reports, direct changes and process improvements to ensure business unit profitability. Prepare and manage capital project budgets for cost reduction, quality improvement and production expansion at existing facilities, or at new facilities as may be required to support business objectives. Develop necessary capital programs for sites to maintain manufacturing competitiveness in the respective market.Standards, ESG and Quality processesUnderstand health and safety standards and local regulatory requirements to ensure all processes comply; also provides thorough training to all employees on these topics.Direct the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Ensure that the facility follows ISO requirements.Ensure overall accountability for a safe and injury free work environment through reinforcement of HSE (Health, Safety, Environmental standards) policy in the plant. Ensure compliance with applicable internal and external health, safety and environmental (HSE) regulations. Direct regular safety audits and review the effectiveness of programs and processes.Develop an ESG strategy to establish annual and long-term targets, programs to support incremental and continuous improvement and bi-annual reporting.Manage and motivate staff (including hiring, firing & performance management).Lead administration of hiring staff, recommend pay increases, perform performance reviews, training and development of staff, resource management, assign work, meet completion dates, define and ensure consistent application of organizational policies.Other Significant Role Requirements: Customer Focus: This is a highly visible position with a critical impact on the company’s future. Internal and external contacts include all levels of employees within the company, division management, consultants, and other professional business contacts within the industry. External contacts are key to the effective execution of the objectives of the company. Frequently these interactions will involve extremely complex, emotional and sensitive issues. Success in this area is vital for the development of the existing and future business. Critical Competencies: Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; meets challenges with resourcefulness; generates suggestions for improving work; develops innovative approaches and ideas; presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; supports and explains reasoning for decisions; includes appropriate people in decision-making process; makes timely decisions.Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports organization's goals and values; benefits organization through outside activities; supports affirmative action and respects diversity.Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; manages competing demands; changes approach or method to best fit the situation; able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events. Experience, REQUIREMENTS & Skills:At least 15 years of experience to include accountability for operations strategy, development, and execution within a high-tech engineering environment.Degree in Engineering, Business Management of Logistics Extensive experience in a low-volume, high-complexity manufacturing organization with responsibility spanning quality, manufacturing and engineering.Management experience in one of the following industries: automotive, aerospace, custom industrial or other niche manufacturing.Experience managing or overseeing multiple facilities.Experience applying lean/Six Sigma principles in manufacturing, plant operations, ERP implementation, on and offshoring and engineering.Demonstrated skill diagnosing, isolating, and resolving complex issues.Position requires travel at least 30% of the time for business purposes (within US and international).