Operations Manager (Value Stream Leader)

Overview

A leading advanced manufacturing organization is seeking a Value Stream Leader (VSL) to oversee end-to-end operations within a critical production value stream. This role is responsible for driving operational performance, production execution, continuous improvement, and team leadership across all phases of the manufacturing lifecycle.

The Value Stream Leader will own performance across revenue, cost, quality, delivery, and inventory, while fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Core Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Value Stream Ownership

• Lead all aspects of manufacturing operations within the assigned value stream (purchase through shipment)
• Oversee daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual production targets and execution
• Own value stream performance across revenue, cost, productivity, and program execution
• Manage inventory levels, production flow, and operational efficiency
• Ensure alignment between demand planning, production planning, and execution

Cross-Functional Management

• Provide leadership across manufacturing, engineering, quality, supply chain, and production control teams
• Coordinate activities across design engineering, manufacturing engineering, testing, and inspection functions
• Drive collaboration to achieve operational goals and customer requirements
• Support bid planning and program execution in alignment with business objectives

Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Implement standard work, process improvements, and root cause problem-solving initiatives
• Utilize continuous improvement systems (e.g., RBS or equivalent) to drive measurable results
• Establish clear accountability, performance tracking, and process discipline
• Lead initiatives to improve productivity, cost of quality, and operational efficiency

Performance Management & KPIs

• Drive achievement of key performance indicators, including:
  • On-Time Delivery (OTD)
  • Past Due Backlog (PDBL) reduction
  • Production/Delivery Linearity
  • Defects per Unit (DLU) improvement
  • Revenue attainment
  • Safety performance
• Monitor and report on customer scorecard metrics and operational performance
• Identify risks and implement corrective actions to ensure targets are met

Team Leadership & Workforce Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing, cross-functional team
• Foster a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Ensure proper training, cross-training, and workforce flexibility
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and results-driven team environment
• Serve as a role model for leadership, collaboration, and change management

Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Ensure a safe work environment and compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards
• Drive quality improvements and adherence to manufacturing standards
• Implement and sustain standardized processes and quality control measures
• Ensure consistent execution of corrective and preventive actions

Qualifications & Experience

Experience

• 6+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, production leadership, or value stream management
• Proven leadership experience in a team-based, cross-functional manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated success driving operational improvements, cost reduction, and performance metrics
• Experience leading projects, programs, or production teams with measurable results

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience

Technical Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing reporting tools
• Understanding of production planning, inventory management, and supply chain operations
• Familiarity with quality systems, root cause analysis, and process optimization
• Knowledge of end-to-end manufacturing processes (procurement through shipment)

Professional Skills

• Strong leadership, team building, and coaching capabilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills across all organizational levels
• Proven ability to drive accountability, performance, and cultural change
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, results-driven environment
• High level of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement mindset

Additional Information

• Role requires hands-on leadership within a manufacturing/production environment
• High visibility position with direct impact on operational performance and business outcomes
• Opportunity to drive continuous improvement initiatives and build high-performing teams
• Involvement in strategic planning, production optimization, and customer satisfaction efforts

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