VP, General Manager

WORK LOCATION: Ann Arbor, MI

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $170,000 to $275,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

Summary

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking an experienced and visionary General Manager / Vice President to lead our Energy Systems manufacturing facility. This site leads the research, development and manufacturing of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Lithium-Ion Batteries utilized for powering our Unmanned Aerial Vehicles being developed in sister sites. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of operations, strategy and business growth to drive the success of our manufacturing facility. Strong leadership, strategic planning and industry expertise will be instrumental in achieving operational excellence and positioning the company as a leader in the rapidly growing UAV sector.

The Ann Arbor facility is currently pursuing its initial certification to the AS9100 Quality Management System standard. It will be the third Redwire facility certified in an 18-month period.

Responsibilities

• The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.
• Establish departmental goals and performance metrics, proactively monitoring KPIs to ensure schedules, quality standards, and operational targets are achieved.
• Drive business growth and profitability by developing and executing site strategy in partnership with executive leadership, informed by industry trends, competitive insights and opportunities for innovation and market expansion.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key customers, partners, and stakeholders to enhance business opportunities and customer satisfaction.
• Lead site-level operations with a relentless focus on manufacturing excellence, ensuring safe, efficient production, integrated supply chain performance, and on-time delivery of all Energy Systems products.
• Promote strong collaboration across site-level, cross-functional, and enterprise teams, including Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Safety, HR and corporate partners to ensure alignment and execution of business objectives.
• Own site financial performance, including operating and capital budgets, to ensure cost-effective operations, disciplined investment, and long-term manufacturing capability.
• Ensure compliance with all quality, safety, and regulatory requirements, including AS9100, FAA, ISO, and applicable aerospace standards, while leading site certification and continuous improvement efforts.
• Build and lead a high-performing organization by coaching and developing leaders, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a senior representative of the company, engaging customers, partners, and industry forums while providing regular performance updates to executive leadership.
• All other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration or related discipline.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, including senior leadership roles within fuel cell, battery, aerospace (UAV preferred), or related high‑technology manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, continuous improvement, quality systems and industry best practices.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high performing leadership teams, fostering accountability, engagement, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Strong track record of strategic planning and disciplined execution, delivering operational excellence, sustainable growth and measurable business results.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets and making data-driven decisions.
• Strong understanding of regulatory, safety and quality requirements specific to highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and growing a manufacturing facility or business unit.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards.
• Excellent communicator with the ability to engage executives, customers, partners and internal team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Ability to communicate company messaging in a positive and unified manner, displaying alignment with the overarching company vision and directives

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline
• Experience specific to aerospace manufacturing requirements (e.g.: AS9100, FAA)
• Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and other manufacturing software

Redwire Defense Tech Benefits

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

Clearance Requirements

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

Work Environment And Physical Requirements

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.