Vice President of Technology
Our Minneapolis-based, 600 employee strong, privately-held manufacturing client has been an industry leader for over 100 years, and they aren’t showing any signs of slowing down anytime soon! Recently infused with investment from a well-respected private equity firm, they are looking to invest in multiple technologies to fuel their continued growth over the next 5 years (a new ERP system, Industry 4.0 smart manufacturing technology, etc.).
Reporting to the CEO, the Vice President of Technology will lead a team of around 40 employees, split between 3 different teams. This role is a newly created executive position, responsible for driving the technological vision and strategy. This executive will oversee the development, integration, and optimization of technology across our client’s production and business processes, platforms, and teams. Additionally, this role will lead and oversee the transformation of their data processing and prepress functions, ensuring that digital content, data workflows, and pre-production processes are optimized for speed, accuracy, and quality. This is a high-impact role requiring both visionary leadership and deep technical expertise in both manufacturing and data-driven production processes.
*** This role is located in Minneapolis. Given the technology initiatives they are looking to implement, the VP is expected to be on-site 4-5 days/week. ***
*** This position offers a strong base salary and annual bonus, in addition to a competitive benefits package. ***
Responsibilities
- Define and execute the company’s long-term technology roadmap, with a focus on manufacturing technologies, data processing, and prepress operations, and including an ERP modernization assessment and potential implementation
- Drive the adoption of next-generation manufacturing technologies, such as AI, robotics, IoT, machine learning, and advanced analytics, to improve operational efficiency, product quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Evaluate emerging technologies in the manufacturing sector and data-driven production processes to ensure our client's market leadership.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and address technological challenges, ensuring efficient, high-quality production and prepress workflows.
- Ensure the smooth integration of data systems with other business and production systems (e.g., ERP, MES) to improve manufacturing processes and outcomes.
- Spearhead the development and deployment of smart manufacturing solutions and data-driven decision-making tools that enhance production efficiency and quality.
- Oversee the management and optimization of data processing functions, including the collection, validation, and processing of large datasets required for production workflows.
- Direct the prepress functions to ensure accurate and efficient digital content preparation for production. This includes managing the flow of digital assets, from initial receipt to final pre-production output. Implement and optimize software tools and workflows that ensure high-quality prepress preparation, including file conversions, proofing, and data preparation for automated production lines.
- Oversee the integration of advanced technologies in data processing, digital workflows, and prepress operations to streamline processes, reduce cycle times, and improve output quality.
- Establish best practices and standards for managing data flow, ensuring consistency, security, and accessibility throughout the manufacturing lifecycle.
- Foster a culture of continuous innovation and improvement by leading the development of new technologies and processes that enhance product quality, production capabilities, and prepress efficiency.
- Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing technology, data-processing, and prepress teams, ensuring alignment with the company’s vision for manufacturing innovation and data optimization.
- Provide guidance and expertise to all levels of the organization on technology-related matters, fostering an environment of knowledge sharing and collaboration.
- Build and manage relationships with key technology vendors, consultants, and industry partners to ensure the company stays at the forefront of manufacturing technology and data processing innovations.
- Negotiate contracts, manage third-party vendors, and oversee the selection of tools, platforms, and systems to meet the company’s technology needs.
- Develop and manage the technology department’s budget, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
- Optimize resource allocation and technology investments to maximize ROI and minimize operational risks.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field or equivalent work experience required; MBA or advanced business degree is a plus.
- 10+ years of experience in a senior technology leadership role within the manufacturing sector, with a strong understanding in data processing and prepress functions.
- Proven track record of successfully implementing and managing large-scale technology transformations, ideally in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Deep understanding of Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, robotics, automation, IoT, cloud computing, AI, and data analytics in a production setting.
- Knowledge of data processing and prepress operations, including digital content preparation, file management, proofing, and digital asset workflows.
- Experience with data management systems, data warehousing, and ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data flow in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and guide a diverse technical team.
- Expertise in manufacturing processes and systems, including lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.
- Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities with a focus on results and continuous improvement.
- Strong project management and organizational skills with a proven ability to manage complex projects and initiatives.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.
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