Vice President Operations

Company Description CaneKast is building a coast-to-coast network of non-ferrous casting facilities focused on delivering high-quality products on time. The company leverages modern technology and scalable processes to support a wide range of order sizes and casting requirements. CaneKast emphasizes a family-like culture, treating employees and customers with respect and long-term commitment. Team members join a collaborative environment that values reliability, innovation, and continuous improvement in manufacturing. The organization is growing and offers opportunities to shape operations and influence its national footprint.

Role Description This is a full-time, on-site Vice President Operations role based near Greenville, SC. The Vice President Operations will oversee day-to-day plant operations across casting facilities, ensuring safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are consistently met. This role will lead and mentor site leaders, production teams, and support staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration. The Vice President Operations will develop and implement operational strategies, standardize processes, and drive adoption of technology to improve throughput, efficiency, and scalability. Responsibilities include managing budgets and KPIs, optimizing supply chain and capacity planning, coordinating with sales and customer service on demand and delivery, and supporting capital investment and expansion initiatives. The role also involves partnering with HR on workforce planning and development, and representing operations in senior leadership discussions and company-wide initiatives.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in operations or plant management within manufacturing, preferably metals, casting, or related industrial environments.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute operational strategies, including process standardization, capacity planning, and performance management.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, 5S) and driving measurable productivity and quality gains.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and interpreting operational metrics and KPIs to guide decisions.
• Track record of building, leading, and coaching diverse teams, with a focus on safety, engagement, and professional development.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional partners in sales, supply chain, customer service, and executive leadership.
• Comfort using modern manufacturing technologies, ERP/MRP systems, and data-driven tools to manage multi-site operations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the capacity to operate in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field; an advanced degree or relevant certifications are a plus.
• Willingness to travel periodically to other facilities and partners as needed to support a national operational footprint.