Vice President, Industries Operations

Salary Range: $ To $ Annually

The Vice President, Industries Operations has full P/L responsibility for Lighthouse Industries operations which includes four teams: manufacturing, contract management services, Construction, Engineering and Research Laboratory (CERL) janitorial and CERL shipping. Key functions include ensuring development and implementation of efficient operations, marketing services, completing funder reporting and maintaining cost-effective systems to meet current and future needs of the organization. Achieving budgeted revenue growth is a key component of this role.

There are 5 direct reports and a total of 55 staff.

• Provide direction, leadership and supervision for manufacturing, sales, marketing, customer service, purchasing and business development activities.
• Ensure the planning, assembly and delivery of multiple product lines simultaneously, on-time and within budget.
• Oversee the manufacturing process and ensure efficiency, safety and quality.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures.
• Remain knowledgeable of emerging technologies and trends in manufacturing management and lean systems.
• Identify training needs and ensure proper training is developed and provided for staff.
• Identify, recommend, and implement new processes, technologies, and systems to improve and streamline organizational processes and use resources and materials efficiently.
• Ensures that departmental decisions and project plans such as those for staffing, development, material efficiency and facilities are in line with the organization's business plan and vision
• Achieve the annual strategic objectives and performance expectations.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Chief Operating Officer/EVP.

• Establish annual budgets and maintain fiscal targets while identifying ways to improve margin, reduce expenses and improve processes.
• Conduct forecasting and data analysis to control costs, maintain appropriate ordering estimates, track sales trends and maintain adequate staffing levels for projects.
• Track and analyze data to meet key performance indicators.
• Maintain accurate inventory management systems and reporting.
• Maintain reporting compliance including, but not limited to personnel activity reports, periodic performance reports, on-time delivery statistics, potential price increase analysis and other reports required by the National Industries for the Blind and/or grantors

• Identify and assess new product and business opportunities.
• Promote business growth for new and existing products by leveraging marketing, sales and distribution channels to expand market share.
• Maintain an entrepreneurial spirit to grow business opportunities.
• Manage sales and marketing functions for new and existing products; function as head of sales and marketing.
• Maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including the National Industries for the Blind, vendors, customers, grantors and board members.

• Bachelor's degree required and Master's degree preferred;
• At least 10 years of related professional experience required, including 5 years or more of management experience;
• Previous experience with visual impairment, blindness, and/or multiple disabilities is a plus;
• Previous experience with business development preferred;
• Experience with lean manufacturing practices
• Experience working in highly regulated environments
• Commitment to our mission of providing opportunities for people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled, and Veteran is essential.

The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired is an Equal Opportunity Employer in full compliance with local, state, and federal Civil Rights & Affiantative Action laws. The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired maintains a strong policy of accommodation and a consistent practice of employing qualified individuals with disabilities. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, sexual orientation, military status, order of protection status or unfavorable discharge from military service.