VP of Manufacturing / Operations

Chicago, IL
Contracted to Full Time
Executive

Value Driven Solutions (VDS) is looking for a VP of Manufacturing/Operations to join our interim executive bench, with this engagement deploying on-site at our PE-backed middle-market manufacturing client in the [Location] region. The VP of Manufacturing/Operations will own multi-site performance, deploy the Value-Driven Approach® across the enterprise, and drive measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and EBITDA — typically within the first two quarters of the engagement.

The ideal candidate will enjoy solving complex operational challenges and have the ability to assess multi-site performance, weigh strategic options, and deliver the best possible value-creation outcome for the client and PE sponsor. The ideal candidate will apply their command of Lean, Six Sigma, and Toyota Production System principles and communicate effectively with shop-floor teams, executives, and boards.

Responsibilities:

  • Operations leadership – 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.
  • OpEx deployment – 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.
  • Strategic execution – 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.

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

About Value Driven Solutions

Value Driven Solutions (VDS) is a management consulting firm dedicated to Operational Excellence for middle-market and private equity-backed manufacturers. Senior executives and PE investors worldwide rely on VDS to enhance enterprise value, expand margins, improve capital efficiency, reduce working capital, optimize supply chains, and prepare companies for sale. Our network of 10,000+ Interim Executives and Experts is fully vetted, with an average of 20–30 years of experience — the top 1% of operating talent globally.

Our experts enjoy a work culture that promotes hands-on impact, executive-level autonomy, and meaningful results. VDS engagement benefits include 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, and continued business development between engagements.

Experts can also take advantage of 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), and a structured Contract-to-Hire path that lets both Expert and client validate fit before conversion. All positions are Contract-to-Hire engagements; VDS facilitates the transition to permanent employment if and when the client and Expert elect to convert.

Value Driven Solutions is an equal-opportunity employer.


 
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