Vice President, Production and Manufacturing

The Vice President, Production and Manufacturing for C Speed LLC is a senior executive leadership role responsible for the overall strategy and execution of all production and light manufacturing operations for the company's advanced radar systems. This includes leading the stand-up, commissioning, and operations of a new, state-of-the-art production facility; creating and implementing leadership, and operational structure of the production organization; transitioning existing production lines; organizing and managing large and complex inventory of high value product and stock parts; and overseeing all aspects of radar production to include assembly, integration, and testing (AIT), as well as some light manufacturing associated with C Speed Radar systems.

The VP builds and develops a high-performing team, fosters a culture of operational excellence, and ensures a seamless, data-driven transition from engineering to manufacturing. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep technical understanding of complex radar and defense systems, a track record of scaling operations, and strong collaborative skills to work with the Engineering and Development organization, as well as other key functional organizations such as independent Program Management, Supply Chain and Quality Assurance organizations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Facility Stand-up:

• Serve as the primary executive responsible for the design, build-out, and successful commissioning of a new radar production and AIT facility
• Develop and implement a comprehensive manufacturing strategy aligned with the company's mission, growth objectives, and technological advancements.
• Manage capital budgets and resources for facility and equipment procurement to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

Operational Management and Execution:

• Oversee all day-to-day operations for all aspects of the production facility.
• Oversee all day-to-day radar production, from component assembly to system-level integration and final acceptance testing.
• Define and optimize production processes to maximize efficiency, quality, and output while adhering to strict defense industry standards (e.g., AS9100, ITAR).
• Define and operate ongoing support for deployed solutions
• Drive continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives throughout the production lifecycle.

Team Building and Talent Management:

• Build, hire, and mentor a high-performing and multidisciplinary team across manufacturing engineering, test, and quality assurance.
• Foster a positive and accountable work environment, promoting teamwork, skill development, and cross-functional training.

Transition and Integration:

• Manage the complex transition of existing radar production lines and personnel to the new facility, ensuring no disruption to ongoing operations.
• Develop clear Design for Manufacturability (DfM) and Design for Test (DfT) processes in collaboration with the Engineering and Development organization.
• Transition production for increased reusability through configure-to-order practices

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Act as the key interface between Production and the Engineering and Product Development organization to ensure alignment on product roadmaps, requirements, and manufacturing readiness.
• Partner with the supply chain and procurement teams to manage supplier relationships and optimize material flow and logistics.
• Define cost reduction/risk mitigation opportunities
• Work with key stakeholders in analyzing "Build vs. Buy" strategy for key components

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Establish and enforce rigorous quality control measures to ensure all products meet or exceed technical specifications and customer requirements.
• Maintain full compliance with all government regulations, contractual obligations, and internal policies related to defense manufacturing.
• Work closely with the independent Quality Control organization to support their responsibilities

Requirements:

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in advanced production and light manufacturing, preferably in the defense sector. Experience in both large and midsize defense companies is desired, but not mandatory.
• Proven experience in successfully scaling production from prototype to high-volume manufacturing for complex hardware systems, with specific experience in radar, electro-optical, or avionics systems highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience with managing the stand-up of a new manufacturing facility, including capital planning, factory layout, and process validation.
• Familiarity with the import/export challenges of foreign based suppliers and customers and associated regulations is a plus

Technical Skills:

• Deep technical understanding of radar systems, assembly processes, and test methodologies.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing systems, including ERP/MRP implementation and data-driven performance analysis.

Leadership and Soft Skills:

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to navigate complex operational challenges.
• Eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical field is required. An advanced degree (Master's) is preferred.