Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations

Job Overview

Position:
Manager, Manufacturing Systems & Digital Operations

Department:
Information Technology

Locations:
Libertyville, IL or Stuarts Draft, VA

Summary:

Join our Global IT Organization and help shape the future through digital innovation, data, and AI. The Manager will accelerate our multi‑year digital transformation journey, driving business change through cutting‑edge MES solutions and Digital Factory initiatives. The role leads a team of application specialists and collaborates with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and IT to develop robust, compliant, and innovative solutions that enhance operational excellence and business value.

• Lead and develop 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. Maintain security, protection, and optimal performance of manufacturing systems.
• Develop 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…