VP of Operations

Vice President of OperationsPosition OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Vice President of Operations to lead and scale our tradeshow manufacturing and operations functions. The VP of Operations will drive operational excellence, oversee project management and production, optimize processes, and partner with cross-functional teams to deliver on growth and profitability objectives. This role requires strategic leadership, deep manufacturing experience, and a hands-on approach to execution.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute the operational strategy to support company growth, improve efficiency, and ensure quality across manufacturing and service delivery.Lead and manage manufacturing operations, including production planning, capacity management, scheduling, and continuous improvement initiatives.Direct project management activities to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget; standardize PM processes and governance.Oversee budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and reporting for operations; drive initiatives to improve cost structure and margins.Manage purchasing, vendor relationships, and supply chain to ensure reliable supply, favorable terms, and strong supplier performance.Collaborate with sales, account management, and estimation teams to support quotes, capacity commitments, and customer expectations.Coordinate design, product development, and engineering handoffs to ensure manufacturability and timely commercialization.Represent operations at tradeshows and customer meetings as needed; support account management to maintain strong client relationships.Implement and maintain safety, quality, and regulatory compliance programs across facilities.Build, mentor, and grow high-performing operations teams; set clear goals, KPIs, and development plans.Establish operational metrics and dashboards; use data-driven insights to drive continuous improvement and decision-making.QualificationsBachelors degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.10+ years of progressive operations experience with significant manufacturing leadership responsibilities; experience at director or VP level highly preferred.Proven track record in project management, including delivering complex, cross-functional projects on time and on budget.Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, capacity planning, scheduling, purchasing, and supply chain management.Demonstrated experience owning P&L, budgeting, cost control, and financial forecasting.Excellent leadership and people management skills with experience building and scaling teams and driving change.Outstanding communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills; comfortable engaging with sales, customers, and executive leadership.Data-driven mindset with experience implementing KPIs, dashboards, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent).Must-have skills: Project Management, Manufacturing, Operations, VP.Nice-to-have skills: Account Management, Tradeshow, Design, Budget, Sales, Estimation, Management, Scheduling, Purchasing.BenefitsHealth, Dental, Vision, PTO, etc.