Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations
Listed on 2026-07-23
-
IT/Tech
IT Business Analyst, IT Project Manager, Systems Engineer, Cybersecurity
We Make Life More Rewarding and Dignified
Location
:
Libertyville, IL or Stuarts Draft, VA (Hybrid: 4 days/week onsite)
Department
:
Information Technology
Join our Global IT Organization and help shape the future through digital innovation, data, and AI. We’re seeking a proactive leader for the role of Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations. This position combines responsibilities for managing manufacturing systems with strategic digital leadership. You will oversee daily operations and optimize core factory systems, including ERP integration (SAP ECC/S/4
HANA), MES, labeling platforms, and essential plant applications, ensuring uptime, compliance, and continuous manufacturing in a regulated environment. You will establish and track KPIs, oversee lead validation and audit readiness, coordinate disaster recovery planning and testing, and manage vendor relationships and service performance. Building on this operational foundation, you will support Digital Factory initiatives that leverage modern data and AI techniques to achieve tangible improvements in efficiency, insights, and resilience.
Lead and support the Manufacturing Systems team, focusing on performance management and professional growth. Ensure staff are trained in MES, labeling, and digital manufacturing technologies and best practices. Supervise the design, configuration, testing, deployment, documentation, and training for manufacturing systems (MES, labeling, plant maintenance, etc.).
Collaborate with project managers, manufacturing leaders, and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated digital solutions. Support smooth transition and change management for all project-related activities within designated areas. Partner with IT Finance and Strategic Sourcing for procurement and vendor management, ensuring compliance and value delivery.
Stay up to date with emerging industry trends in MES, labeling, IIoT, and digital manufacturing. Develop and implement new capabilities to address changing business and regulatory requirements. Oversee system upgrades, integrations, and process improvements to boost manufacturing functionality and efficiency.
Manage budgets for personnel, services, and technology investments related to manufacturing systems.
Define and monitor key performance indicators for manufacturing systems and digital operations. Participate in management reviews and document key processes for compliance and continuous improvement. Ensure all manufacturing applications and integrations comply with medical device industry standards (FDA, GMP, ISO:13485) and validation practices.
Monitor and support manufacturing system performance to ensure reliability, efficiency, and compliance. Troubleshoot issues and resolve problems to reduce downtime and keep production running smoothly. Stay aware of the system lifecycle and suggest upgrades or replacements as necessary. Maintain security, protection, and optimal performance of manufacturing systems.
Develop, design, and execute disaster recovery planning and testing for manufacturing systems. Lead validation activities to ensure audit readiness and regulatory compliance.
- Minimum 8 years of experience in manufacturing systems, MES, labeling, or related technology platforms.
- Minimum 2 years (preferably 4 years) in a leadership role managing technical teams.
- BS in Information Technology, Engineering, or related discipline; equivalent business experience considered.
- MBA or advanced degree desirable.
- Fluency in English required.
- Proven leadership skills to motivate teams and drive high performance.
- Advanced knowledge of MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) – preferably Critical Manufacturing, labeling platforms, and plant maintenance applications.
- Experience with SAP ERP (ECC, S4/HANA), WMS, EDI, and integration of manufacturing systems.
- Familiarity with IIoT, smart factory technologies, and automation tools such as RPA and Tricentis.
- In-depth understanding of regulatory compliance (FDA, GMP, ISO:13485) and validation practices for medical device manufacturing.
- Strong analytical skills for troubleshooting, process optimization, and KPI management.
- Proficient in PowerPoint, Excel, Power BI, Visio, and MS Word.
- Experience with IT asset configuration management, infrastructure lifecycle, and cybersecurity principles.
- Ability to develop, implement, and maintain repeatable processes.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills, capable of addressing manufacturing and system-related issues.
- Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and service level agreements.
- Willing to work flexible hours and travel as needed for plant support and project delivery.
- Experience with labor management modules and monitoring operator…
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