VP of Operations

VP of Operations (Open) Location: Independence, OH 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 executive role focuses on continuous improvement, capital expenditure management, budgeting, safety and compliance culture, and industrial programs. Key Responsibilities Define and execute the regional operational strategy, establishing safety guidelines, organizational structures, and risk‑monitoring frameworks to achieve business growth. Optimize industrial resources across the region with a focus on leadership development, team competency, and capital investment tracking. Manage and navigate 50%‑to‑75% regional travel to maintain a strong operational presence across multiple production facilities. Monitor regional operational health using performance dashboards, KPIs, and structured roadmap evaluations to drive continuous improvement. Oversee comprehensive industrial programs focused on process safety, facility reliability, maintenance excellence, and integrated IT/OT systems. Provide 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. Working knowledge of basic finance and accounting principles, including capital investment calculations, P&L management, and operational financial KPIs. Must be willing to travel 50%‑to‑75% within the regional territory. Preferred Qualifications Prior industrial gas industry experience. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision; Short‑term and Long‑term Disability; Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance. Employee Assistance Program (EAP), pre‑tax commuter benefit, parental leave, vacation, sick time, floating holidays, jury duty and funeral/bereavement leave, paid holidays. 401(k) retirement plan with company match, tuition reimbursement, discounted college tuition for eligible employees’ dependents, and an Airgas Scholarship Program for dependent children. Other benefits may apply based on collective bargaining agreements. Equal Employment Opportunity Airgas, an Air Liquide Company, is 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 and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Airgas does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to benefits and privileges of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr