VP of Operations

VP of Operations (Vice President of Operations)

Samson, the worldwide leader in high performance cordage, is seeking a VP of Operations. As a member of the Executive Management team, the VP of Operations assumes a strategic role in the overall management of the company. The VP of Operations will have primary responsibility for the direction, strategy, planning and execution of the company’s global Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality and Customer Service functions.

Responsible for practicing a high level of business ethics and professionalism and adhering to safety and quality guidelines in support of Samson strategy and core values.

• Strong problem solver who uses data and critical analysis to make sound business decisions and isn’t afraid to think outside the box.
• Results oriented and does not compromise integrity for results.
• Solid business acumen to include understanding business model, customer base, value proposition, business processes, and financial statements in order to critically provide input in an intelligent and credible manner.
• Strong sense of urgency and bias for action. Done intelligently, not recklessly, this action orientation, coupled with an ability to quickly adjust course as needed, drives agility.
• Able to build relationships and establish credibility at all levels in the organization, with suppliers, customers, and company ownership.
• Strong communication skills with an attention to detail ability to present information in a concise and effective way at all levels in the organization including company owners.
• Ability to provide leadership, build teams, manage, and develop staff.
• Effectively use analytical and problem‑solving skills that assist business decision-making. Compiling, analyzing, and using appropriate data to support ideas and facilitate decision-making is crucial as is the ability to balance meeting short‑term business goals without sacrificing or negatively impacting long‑term business prospects.
• Have the functional and technical knowledge and skills to do the job at a high level of accomplishment including ability to work autonomously and be self‑directed.
• Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines and manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced, changing environment.
• Ability to travel up to 25% to 35% of the time by air; must have valid documentation to travel internationally.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, Engineering, or other related field. A Master’s Degree is preferred.
• Experience:
  
  10+ years of progressively responsible related experience in manufacturing company including 5+ years of experience in a senior leader/management role with the responsibility for manufacturing or engineering operations. Experience in Lean principles.
• Desired experience in the following:
  • Manufacturing industry (Private)
  • Midsize companies
  • Multi‑location and international experience
  • Quality Management Systems
  • Outsourcing
  • Lean and agile methodology
  • Cost Management
  • Supplier Strategic Management

• Direct and oversee all aspects of the global Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Customer Service functions of the organization.
• Closely monitor operating performance against the financial plan and, where appropriate, make adjustments to capitalize on emerging opportunities or changing conditions.
• Ensure understanding of and support for Company strategy, core values and operational goals within areas of responsibility.
• Participate in the development of Company strategies and provide recommendations to strategically enhance financial performance and business opportunities.
• Prepare annual strategic briefs, business plans and budgets for areas of responsibility.
• Provide leadership in the development and execution of short and long‑term strategic department objectives aligned with overall company strategy and goals.
• Develop and implement programs to foster creativity and ensure the timely delivery of new, industry‑leading technology and products to markets to maintain and enhance competitive advantage.
• Create an environment that fosters partnership and teamwork across departments throughout the company.
• Play an active role in senior‑level…