**This is an external placement through 10th St. Talent recruiting agency. This is not a portfolio company of Permanent Equity.

Position: VP of Operations

Reports to: CEO/Owner

Location: Phoenix Metro Area (Tempe)

Compensation: $125,000 - $175,000 + bonus

Company Overview:

A leading manufacturer of rolling shutters at the forefront of providing security and energy efficiency solutions for both commercial and residential applications is looking for a VP of Operations to lead their Phoenix-based company. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, they are looking to expand their reach and enhance operational capabilities.

The Opportunity:

Our client is seeking a VP of Operations with a unique blend of leadership, operational excellence, and a pragmatic approach to lead their team from single- to double-digit millions in revenue in a sustainable way. The ideal candidate will bring proven lean manufacturing leadership experience in customized product fabrication, as well as proven skills in change management, inventory management, and customer service excellence. This role requires a hands-on leader who values low ego, high ethical standards and is driven by a sense of ownership and commitment to long-term success.

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate is someone with a rich background in operations and leadership, who has seen the upside (and downside) of growth and wants to navigate a business through a period of sustainable, healthy growth for the long term. They should be energized by the prospect of professionalizing and introducing a new level of sophistication to the business, embracing the challenge of elevating the company to new heights. Adept at navigating systems change and managing transitions, this individual should excel in change management, demonstrating both flexibility and a strategic mindset. Additionally, being a natural people person, they should possess strong interpersonal skills, enabling them to connect with and inspire the team effectively. This role is suited for a leader who is not just experienced but also passionate about making significant impacts through operational excellence and strategic growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations and drive the execution of the multi-year goals of the company, ensuring alignment with company mission and values. This includes production, customer service, supply chain/inventory management, HR, and bookkeeping functions.
• Oversee improvements in systems and infrastructure to make the transition from a “family-style business” to a professionalized best-in-class business.
• Champion the full implementation of a lean manufacturing methodology in a historically batch-driven manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate does not view "lean" as a buzzword, but a robust set of philosophies and practices that require focus and discipline to achieve.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and partners to streamline our trans-Atlantic supply chain, reduce inventory, and solve customer challenges.
• Protect the company's 45-year reputation for excellence through ever-improving quality control and safety.
• Cultivate a culture of documentation and process-focused operation to ensure smooth growth and upward mobility for employees.
• Prioritize the development of leadership capabilities and the expansion of managerial positions within the organization.
• Collaborate with the owner to identify and pursue growth opportunities, including potential acquisitions and market expansion.

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Plant Manager, Director of Operations, or similar leadership role in a lean manufacturing environment.
• Strong operational background with experience in lean manufacturing focused on end users buying direct or custom products. 
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a pragmatic approach to operational challenges.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and the ability to lead technological and system improvements.
• Comfortable with weekly check-ins with ownership and capable of operating with a high degree of autonomy and responsibility.
• Experience professionalizing a smaller company.
• Alignment with the company’s values and a commitment to ethical business practices.

Why Join Us?

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic and growing business with a long-term perspective. This is not a 5-7 year sprint to “flip” a company, but a multi-decade journey of building a business we can all be proud of. We are committed to investing in our people and our products, ensuring we remain at the forefront of our industry. If you are an operational A-player with a passion for leadership, excellence, and a desire to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.