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Leading Blindmate Microwave Contact Technology

Operations Manager

The Phoenix Company of Chicago is seeking a hands-on Operations Manager to lead daily manufacturing and supply chain operations in support of our RF/Microwave connector and cable assembly products serving Cryogenics, Quantum Computing, Aerospace, Test & Measurement, Medical, and Defense markets.

This position is ideal for a proven manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, highly technical environment and has demonstrated success improving operational performance, manufacturing efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery through strong leadership and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Operations Manager will oversee Production, Quality, Materials/Purchasing, Shipping, Tooling, and Facilities functions while driving operational excellence across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operations Leadership
  • Direct and coordinate day-to-day manufacturing operations to achieve company goals for quality, delivery, productivity, and profitability.
  • Lead functional managers and supervisors across production, quality, materials, shipping, tooling, and maintenance departments.
  • Establish operational priorities, performance metrics, and accountability systems.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on throughput, labor efficiency, scrap reduction, setup reduction, and schedule attainment.
  • Develop operational strategies supporting current and future business growth.

  • Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
  • Implement Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen methodologies throughout operations.
  • Improve workflow, manufacturing processes, inventory management, and factory utilization.
  • Identify and implement process improvements to maximize operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
  • Support capital equipment planning and facility improvement initiatives.
  • Improve OTD to 99%.

  • Quality & Compliance
  • Support and strengthen company quality systems and continuous improvement programs.
  • Ensure compliance with ISO/AS9100 quality standards and customer requirements.
  • Partner with Quality leadership to improve KPI  performance, response time, and corrective action effectiveness.
  • Improve PPM from above average to Best in Class.

  • Supply Chain & Materials Management
  • Oversee production planning, purchasing, and inventory management activities.
  • Improve inventory turns, material availability, supplier performance, and on-time delivery.
  • Support cost reduction and supply chain optimization initiatives.

  • Team Leadership
  • Foster a positive, accountable, and collaborative work environment.
  • Provide coaching, leadership, and development for managers, supervisors, and production personnel.
  • Identify and develop High Potential employees into future leaders.
  • Partner with Human Resources on hiring, employee development, performance management, and workforce planning.
  • Set the tone for professionalism, urgency, teamwork, and operational discipline throughout the organization.

  • Facilities & Safety
  • Ensure safe, efficient, and well-maintained manufacturing operations.
  • Support preventative maintenance programs for equipment, tooling, and facilities.
  • Promote safety awareness and compliance across all departments.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree required; Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, or related field preferred.
  • 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience in a technical manufacturing environment.
  • Minimum 5 years of management experience leading cross-functional operations teams.
  • Strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems, production scheduling, inventory management, and manufacturing metrics.
  • Working knowledge of ISO and/or AS9100 quality systems preferred.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to lead through influence, drive accountability, and build high-performing teams.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and business reporting tools preferred.

Success Factors:

  • Strong operational leadership and decision-making ability
  • A hands-on, results-oriented management style
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent problem-solving and process improvement skills
  • Commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement
  • Strong interpersonal and team-building capabilities

The Phoenix Company of Chicago offers a competitive salary, along with Medical/Dental/Prescriptions/Vision/Disability/Life Insurance, 401(k) Plan, and Tuition Reimbursement.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans.

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