Operations Manager

Operations Manager

The Phoenix Company of Chicago is seeking a hands-on Operations Manager to lead daily manufacturing and supply chain operations in support of our RF/Microwave connector and cable assembly products serving Cryogenics, Quantum Computing, Aerospace, Test & Measurement, Medical, and Defense markets.

This position is ideal for a proven manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, highly technical environment and has demonstrated success improving operational performance, manufacturing efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery through strong leadership and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Operations Manager will oversee Production, Quality, Materials/Purchasing, Shipping, Tooling, and Facilities functions while driving operational excellence across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operations Leadership
• Direct and coordinate day-to-day manufacturing operations to achieve company goals for quality, delivery, productivity, and profitability.
• Lead functional managers and supervisors across production, quality, materials, shipping, tooling, and maintenance departments.
• Establish operational priorities, performance metrics, and accountability systems.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on throughput, labor efficiency, scrap reduction, setup reduction, and schedule attainment.
• Develop operational strategies supporting current and future business growth.

• Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
• Implement Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen methodologies throughout operations.
• Improve workflow, manufacturing processes, inventory management, and factory utilization.
• Identify and implement process improvements to maximize operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Support capital equipment planning and facility improvement initiatives.
• Improve OTD to 99%.

• Quality & Compliance
• Support and strengthen company quality systems and continuous improvement programs.
• Ensure compliance with ISO/AS9100 quality standards and customer requirements.
• Partner with Quality leadership to improve KPI  performance, response time, and corrective action effectiveness.
• Improve PPM from above average to Best in Class.

• Supply Chain & Materials Management
• Oversee production planning, purchasing, and inventory management activities.
• Improve inventory turns, material availability, supplier performance, and on-time delivery.
• Support cost reduction and supply chain optimization initiatives.

• Team Leadership
• Foster a positive, accountable, and collaborative work environment.
• Provide coaching, leadership, and development for managers, supervisors, and production personnel.
• Identify and develop High Potential employees into future leaders.
• Partner with Human Resources on hiring, employee development, performance management, and workforce planning.
• Set the tone for professionalism, urgency, teamwork, and operational discipline throughout the organization.

• Facilities & Safety
• Ensure safe, efficient, and well-maintained manufacturing operations.
• Support preventative maintenance programs for equipment, tooling, and facilities.
• Promote safety awareness and compliance across all departments.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, or related field preferred.
• 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience in a technical manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 5 years of management experience leading cross-functional operations teams.
• Strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, production scheduling, inventory management, and manufacturing metrics.
• Working knowledge of ISO and/or AS9100 quality systems preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to lead through influence, drive accountability, and build high-performing teams.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and business reporting tools preferred.

Success Factors:

• Strong operational leadership and decision-making ability
• A hands-on, results-oriented management style
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent problem-solving and process improvement skills
• Commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement
• Strong interpersonal and team-building capabilities

The Phoenix Company of Chicago offers a competitive salary, along with Medical/Dental/Prescriptions/Vision/Disability/Life Insurance, 401(k) Plan, and Tuition Reimbursement.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans.