Operations Manager

**Operations Manager** **Lead Manufacturing Operations in Advanced RF \& Microwave Technology** 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 the 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** Successful candidates will demonstrate: · 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 **About The Phoenix Company of Chicago** Established in 1969, The Phoenix Company of Chicago is a vertically integrated manufacturer of RF/Microwave connectors, cable assemblies, blind mate contacts, and custom interconnect solutions serving military, aerospace, medical, telecommunications, quantum computing, and test \& instrumentation markets worldwide. Our culture emphasizes quality, responsiveness, teamwork, innovation, and long\-term employee development. Many of our employees have been with the company for decades, reflecting our commitment to a positive and stable work environment. **Benefits** We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including: · Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance · 401(k) with company match, immediate vesting · Paid Holidays and Vacation · Tuition Reimbursement Program · Career growth opportunities within a technically advanced manufacturing environment Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabilities Pay: $95,000\.00 \- $150,000\.00 per year Benefits: * 401(k) * 401(k) matching * Dental insurance * Employee discount * Health insurance * Paid time off * Retirement plan * Tuition reimbursement * Vision insurance Work Location: In person