General Manager

General Manager OpportunityAre you a visionary executive ready to command a critical segment of defense manufacturing? A premier defense contractor is seeking a dynamic, high-performing General Manager to lead our established operations in Cadillac, Michigan. Full relocation assistance is provided for this executive role.Taking full P&L accountability for a division with a sales volume exceeding $100 million, you will drive the strategic direction, engineering, and manufacturing of critical products for the U.S. military and allied forces. This role demands sharp global business acumen, a commanding executive presence, and a proven track record of managing operations within a unionized (UAW) environment. Due to the nature of our government contracts and ITAR regulations, U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.Strategic Leadership & P&L ManagementOwn the P&L: Take full financial accountability for a heavy manufacturing division exceeding $100 million in annual sales.Drive Business Growth: Expand market share organically by enhancing capabilities, launching new product lines, and strengthening customer relationships.Execute Business Plans: Turn corporate objectives into actionable, profitable operational realities.Financial Stewardship: Lead annual budget development, financial forecasting, pricing approvals, and cost-effective centralized services in coordination with finance management.Defense Operations & ComplianceProduct Lifecycles: Guide the overall direction of product design, development, launch, and administration for mission-critical military equipment.Bid & Proposal Oversight: Oversee complex defense proposal efforts to ensure competitive positioning and total alignment with government requirements.Strict Compliance: Assure absolute compliance with all applicable FAR clauses, FCPA, ITAR, and international trade regulations.Quality & Safety: Maintain a detailed understanding of ISO 9001 standards and champion a proactive safety culture.Labor Relations & CultureLabor Relations: Direct labor relations, including UAW contract compliance and active participation in bargaining negotiations.Talent Development: Recruit, mentor, and retain a highly skilled engineering and operations workforce.Inclusive Culture: Build a workplace environment centered on safety, inclusivity, trust, and alignment with corporate values.What You BringEducation & ExperienceAdvanced Degree: Master's degree (M.A./M.B.A.) or equivalent educational background is preferred.Industry Experience: Minimum of 12 years of related leadership experience and/or specialized training in aerospace, defense, or heavy industrial manufacturing.Government Eligibility: Must be a U.S. Citizen capable of complying with all ITAR clearance and regulatory controls.Equivalent Mix: A proven, equivalent combination of executive education and hands-on industrial experience.Core CompetenciesGlobal Business Acumen: Deep understanding of defense market dynamics, government procurement, and international supply chains.Change Management: Proven ability to establish strategic direction, lead cross-functional teams, and facilitate organizational change.Executive Presence: Exceptional communication skills to build trust with employees, military customers, suppliers, and stockholders.Safety Leadership: A proactive mindset dedicated to maintaining zero-harm, highly compliant manufacturing facilities.