General Manager - Aero & Defense

General Manager – Aero & Defense$275-325k plus bonus & stockRancho Cordova, CA – relocation assistance providedBell & Associates has been engaged to help our client recruit their next General Manager. The General Manager will have full responsibility for the business unit’s performance, leading strategy, operations, financial results, and talent development. This is an opportunity to shape the future of a highly technical manufacturing organization while delivering sustainable growth, strengthening market position, and creating long-term value.ResponsibilitiesLead the overall business strategy, execution, and performance.Own full profit and loss responsibility, including operating plans, forecasting, capital investments, and financial results.Drive revenue growth, profitability, cash flow, and return on invested capital.Lead cross-functional teams across Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, Business Development, Program Management, and Human Resources.Develop and execute long-term growth strategies, including new market opportunities and strategic investments.Build and maintain strong customer, partner, and stakeholder relationships.Drive manufacturing excellence through Lean principles, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making.Manage product, program, and technology portfolios to maximize business performance and customer satisfaction.Develop high-performing leaders, succession plans, and organizational capability.Ensure compliance with regulatory, quality, export control, contractual, and corporate requirements.RequirementsBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline – requiredMBA, advanced degree, military leadership experience, acquisition integration experience, or a technical engineering leadership background – preferredAt least 5 years of General Manager experience in a manufacturing environment with revenues exceeding $50 million – requiredExperience within aerospace, defense, electronics manufacturing, or related industrial markets – requiredExperience leading a technical manufacturing business with full profit and loss accountability – requiredStrong strategic leadership, financial acumen, and business planning skills – requiredAbility to lead organizational transformation and drive operational excellence – requiredExceptional communication, stakeholder management, and team development capabilities – required