VP of Operations

VP of Operations (Open) Location: Independence, OH – Rockside Woods Blvd; Carnegie, PA; Columbus, OH; Ferndale, MI; Moraine, OH; Toledo, OH. At Airgas, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the diversity of our employees, customers, and community stakeholders across the world. Job Description Summary The Vice President of Operations provides overarching strategic leadership and executive oversight for all operational, production, facility, and distribution activities across the Great Lakes region. This critical leadership role is responsible for driving continuous improvement, managing large‑scale capital expenditure (CapEx) processes, budgeting, and ensuring everyday regional activities run safely, smoothly, and cost‑effectively. The VP of Operations directly champions a world‑class safety and compliance culture, implementing robust industrial programs to protect associates while strictly aligning with all company procedural updates and regulatory frameworks. Key Responsibilities Defines and executes the regional operational strategy, establishing clear safety guidelines, optimal organizational structures, and robust risk‑monitoring frameworks to achieve business growth. Optimizes industrial resources across the region, focusing on leadership development, team competency, and strategic tracking of capital investments. Manage and navigate 50% to 75% regional travel across the territory (primarily drivable) to maintain a strong operational presence across multi‑site production facilities. Monitors regional operational health utilizing performance dashboards, KPIs, and structured roadmap evaluations to drive continuous improvement. Oversees comprehensive industrial programs focused on process safety, facility reliability, maintenance excellence, and integrated IT/OT systems. Provides executive oversight and strategic support for the rollout of major capital expenditures and regional industrial projects. Required Qualifications University degree in engineering, chemistry, administration, or related field. 15+ years of progressive management or technical leadership experience operating complex industrial manufacturing, production, or distribution sites. Knowledge of basic finance and accounting principles, including capital investment calculations, P&L management, and operational financial KPIs. Ability and willingness to travel 50% to 75% within the regional territory. Preferred Qualifications Prior industrial gas industry experience. Benefits Full benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance. Up to 14‑week paid maternity and paternity benefits. 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Tuition assistance, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time. Early access to benefits after just 30 days of employment. Contact: Jeff Starr, email: View email address on click.appcast.io, phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io Equal Employment Opportunity Information We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Airgas is a Government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Airgas does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation during the employment selection process, please contact us by email at View email address on click.appcast.io. California Privacy Notice #J-18808-Ljbffr