Vice President of Operations

About the Role

The Vice President of Operations at CPV Paint & Graphics, located near Milwaukee, WI, oversees the entire operational function and reports directly to the President and CEO. This leadership role involves managing department heads responsible for production, quality, procurement, facilities, and the manufacturing workforce. The primary goal is to ensure the operation is well-aligned, properly resourced, and accountable for delivering profitable and timely results that meet OEM quality standards.

CPV is recognized for exceptional craftsmanship and strong OEM partnerships. As the company grows, it seeks an operations leader to enhance systems, cultivate talent, and scale operations while preserving the company's unique strengths.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive overall operational performance and achieve business outcomes
• Recruit, develop, coach, and hold accountable departmental leaders
• Lead production planning, capacity management, and resource allocation
• Ensure on-time delivery and maintain schedule reliability
• Manage quality performance, pursue continuous improvements, and reduce waste
• Optimize operational costs, labor efficiency, and productivity
• Oversee procurement, supplier relationships, and inventory control
• Maintain facilities, equipment, and readiness for operations
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, reporting, and management rhythms
• Facilitate cross-functional coordination among operations, sales, engineering, and executives

Success Indicators (First 12-18 Months)

• Improve timeliness of deliveries and schedule consistency
• Reduce rework, scrap, and operational waste
• Implement KPIs with regular operating cadence
• Empower department leaders to take ownership and accountability for their areas
• Create a more predictable and scalable operational environment

Preferred Experience and Profile

• At least 8 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing environments
• Experience managing operations in high-mix, low-volume, customized manufacturing or make-to-order settings
• Proven capability overseeing multiple manufacturing functions to drive operational performance
• Track record of enhancing throughput, efficiency, and delivery punctuality without sacrificing quality

Ideal Candidate Attributes

• Hungry: Takes initiative, solves problems promptly, and pursues continuous improvement
• Humble: Shares credit, accepts accountability, and treats others with respect
• Smart: Builds strong relationships, communicates effectively, and fosters accountability with trust

Unsuitable Characteristics

• Focuses on own individual accomplishments over team performance
• Primarily experienced in high-volume, repetitive manufacturing rather than diverse, customized production
• Prefers remote management rather than active floor presence coaching and supporting leaders
• Depends heavily on corporate infrastructure to manage results or avoids direct engagement with sales or ownership leadership

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting base salary of $120,000 with higher pay for exceptional candidates
• Annual performance bonus opportunity
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions
• Two weeks paid time off annually
• Paid shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s Day

Equal Opportunity Statement

CPV Paint & Graphics is committed to equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected attributes.