Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations

Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations

Full-time | Hybrid | Libertyville, IL or Stuarts Draft, VA

Summary

Join a Global IT organization focused on digital innovation, data, and AI. The Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations plays a key role in a multi-year digital transformation, driving business change through Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Digital Factory initiatives. This role leads the exploration and implementation of advanced technologies, including real-time predictive analytics and AI, to improve efficiency, intelligence, and agility across manufacturing operations.

This position oversees daily manufacturing technology operations, optimization, and digital transformation efforts, including MES, labeling solutions, and plant digitalization projects. This role leads a team of application specialists and partners closely with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and IT teams to deliver compliant, reliable, and innovative solutions that support operational excellence and business value.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and support the Manufacturing Systems team, focusing on performance management and professional growth
• Ensure team members are trained in MES, labeling, and digital manufacturing technologies and best practices
• Oversee the design, configuration, testing, deployment, documentation, and training for manufacturing systems including MES, labeling, and plant maintenance applications

Cross-Functional Partnership

• Collaborate with project managers, manufacturing leaders, and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated digital solutions
• Support transition planning and change management for project-related activities
• Partner with IT Finance and Strategic Sourcing on procurement and vendor management to ensure compliance and value delivery

Technology & Process Optimization

• Stay current on emerging trends in MES, labeling, IIoT, and digital manufacturing
• Develop and implement new capabilities to address evolving business and regulatory requirements
• Oversee system upgrades, integrations, and process improvements to enhance manufacturing efficiency and functionality

Budget & Resource Management

• Manage budgets for personnel, services, and technology investments related to manufacturing systems

Metrics, KPIs & Compliance

• Define and monitor KPIs for manufacturing systems and digital operations
• Participate in management reviews and document key processes for compliance and continuous improvement
• Ensure manufacturing applications and integrations meet FDA, GMP, and ISO 13485 requirements and validation standards

Technical Support & System Reliability

• Monitor and support manufacturing system performance to ensure reliability, efficiency, and compliance
• Troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime and maintain production continuity
• Manage system lifecycles and recommend upgrades or replacements as needed
• Maintain system security, protection, and optimal performance

Disaster Recovery & Validation

• Develop and execute disaster recovery planning and testing for manufacturing systems
• Lead validation activities to ensure audit readiness and regulatory compliance

Requirements

Experience & Education

• Minimum 8 years of experience in manufacturing systems, MES, labeling, or related technology platforms
• Minimum 2 years (preferably 4 years) managing technical teams
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• MBA or advanced degree preferred

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Advanced knowledge of MES platforms, preferably Critical Manufacturing
• Experience with labeling platforms and plant maintenance applications
• Strong SAP ERP experience (ECC and S/4HANA), with exposure to WMS, EDI, and manufacturing system integrations
• Familiarity with IIoT, smart factory technologies, and automation tools such as RPA and Tricentis
• In-depth understanding of FDA, GMP, and ISO 13485 compliance and validation practices in medical device manufacturing
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for process optimization and KPI management
• Proficiency in PowerPoint, Excel, Power BI, Visio, and Microsoft Word
• Experience with IT asset configuration management, infrastructure lifecycle management, and cybersecurity principles

Leadership & Communication

• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and service level agreements
• Ability to develop and maintain repeatable, scalable processes
• Willingness to work flexible hours and travel as needed to support manufacturing sites

Additional Skills (Preferred)

• Experience with labor management modules and monitoring operator certifications

Essential Functions

• Communicate effectively with suppliers, associates, and plant personnel
• Address manufacturing and system-related issues
• Stay current with relevant technologies and regulatory requirements
• Travel to manufacturing sites as required