Director of Operations

Senior Director / Vice President of Operations Location: Manchester, Maryland Industry: Aerospace & Defense | Advanced Build-to-Print Manufacturing Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Senior Director or Vice President of Operations to lead and scale manufacturing operations for an established aerospace and defense manufacturer based in Manchester, Maryland. The company specializes in high-end, complex build-to-print manufacturing, producing advanced assemblies and specialized components for demanding aerospace applications. Its capabilities include sophisticated assembly processes, brazing, welding, and other specialized manufacturing technologies. With approximately $60M in annual revenue, a strong backlog, and a profitable business , the organization is well positioned for continued growth. Key Responsibilities Operations Leadership & Organizational Maturity Provide strategic and day-to-day leadership across manufacturing, production, quality, facilities and maintenance, and related operational functions. Introduce scalable operating procedures and management routines that improve consistency, predictability, and execution without compromising the company's technical strengths. Strengthen coordination between manufacturing, engineering, quality, planning, and customer-facing functions to improve end-to-end operational performance. Lead organizational development and operational transformation while maintaining employee engagement and leveraging the expertise of an established manufacturing team. Help the business transition from a technically strong, execution-focused operation to a more mature, process-driven organization capable of supporting increasingly demanding customers. Advanced Manufacturing & Production Execution Oversee complex build-to-print manufacturing operations involving advanced assemblies, specialized components, and demanding aerospace customer specifications. Lead Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, throughput, cost, quality, and delivery performance. Establish KPI-driven operating practices and regular performance reviews to identify gaps, assign accountability, and drive corrective actions. Establish a culture in which improvement initiatives are measurable, sustainable, and integrated into everyday operations. Capacity Planning, Backlog Management & Business Growth Translate the existing backlog and forecasted customer demand into actionable production plans, capacity requirements, and resource strategies. Ensure the business has the manufacturing capacity, staffing, equipment, and systems needed to execute its backlog and support future growth. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related technical discipline; advanced degree preferred. Significant progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, ideally within aerospace, defense, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment. Background in high-end build-to-print manufacturing, complex assemblies, precision fabrication, or specialized aerospace components preferred.