Vice President of Operations – American Pan Europe

Summary

Reporting directly to the President of the Europe & MENA business, the VP of Operations will be a crucial member of the European leadership team, steering the operational strategy and execution across all facets of our manufacturing processes in a custom fabrication short-run (low volume / high mix) environment. This role involves direct oversight of a 300-person team across various departments, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency from product design to shipping. The ideal candidate will have a background in large multinational corporations and a proven track record in smaller or family-owned businesses, demonstrating an ability to adapt and thrive in diverse operational environments.

Location: Alexandria, Romania (100% on-site)

Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Spearhead the overall operational strategy, focusing on continuous improvement in quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Team Management: Lead and motivate a large team, promoting a culture of excellence and accountability across all operational areas.
• Talent Development: Ensure business sustainability and continuity through the intentional training and development of critical technical talent, including knowledge transfer and mentoring from long-tenured team members.
• Product Lifecycle Oversight: Oversee the entire product lifecycle from design to delivery, ensuring high standards and customer satisfaction.
• Process Documentation: Observe, refine, and implement best practices in design, tool & die, manufacturing, packaging, and shipping to enhance productivity and quality.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with executive leadership to align operational strategy with the broader business goals.
• Performance Metrics: Develop and monitor key performance indicators to drive operational excellence and achieve strategic objectives.
• Customer Relationships: Partner with customers, be attentive to their needs while accurately representing American Pan’s capabilities.
• Budget/financials: Oversee budget and financial performance, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost management.

Business Requirements

• At least 15 years of progressive operational experience in manufacturing, operations management, and product development.
• Experience in both multinational corporations and smaller or family-owned businesses.
• Direct experience as a plant manager in a custom fabrication/job shop environment.
• Skilled in overseeing the production of metal-stamped consumer goods.
• Proficient in enhancing custom manufacturing operations through continuous improvement methods.
• Demonstrated breadth of knowledge in diverse approaches to manufacturing process design and management.
• Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality assurance, and supply-chain management.
• Outstanding communication, leadership, negotiation, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Previous experience in the industrial baking industry or similar sectors is beneficial.

Interpersonal Requirements

• Diplomacy: Foster trust by communicating transparently and honoring commitments.
• Structure: Uphold strong organizational values.
• Credibility: Equally capable of rolling up their sleeves on the plant floor as they are discussing strategy in the boardroom.
• Change and Continuity: Drive change that builds upon the strengths of the company.
• Honesty/Integrity: Function as a role model, guided by a strong moral compass.
• Attentive Observer: Active listener and observer with deep attention to detail; seeks to understand complex situations and responds with insightful, well-informed decisions.
• High EQ: Have a calm and deliberate style, be an effective team member, leader, influencer, and communicator to senior leadership and plant personnel.
• Mature and Resilient: Has the “edge” necessary to lead and drive performance at all levels of the organization.
• Pro-active Mentality: Always looking for and developing ideas, tools, and strategies for improvement.

Hands-on Approach: Willing to roll up sleeves. This includes frequent communication and time on the plant floor as well as advising and assisting in the company’s operations, as necessary.

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