Vice President of Operations

The Vice President is responsible for driving the operational excellence and growth of our electric motor and generator repair and manufacturing business. This role will support both Gulf Electroquip and the expansion of IDEAL Electric’s production capabilities in Houston, ensuring both businesses thrive in their respective markets while working in alignment with the strategic goals of the organization.

Gulf Electroquip – As the primary focus, the Vice President will be responsible for strengthening and extending Gulf Electroquip’s market-leading position in quality and customer satisfaction within the oil and gas sector, particularly with drilling contractors. This role will oversee all aspects of Gulf Electroquip’s operations, including production, finance, and strategic planning, with an emphasis on maintaining the highest standards of efficiency, safety, and customer service. The Vice President will work to optimize operations and expand the business by building strong relationships with customers and industry partners.

IDEAL Electric – In addition to Gulf Electroquip, the Vice President will play a key role in developing and significantly growing IDEAL Electric’s Houston production operations. As part of IDEAL Electric’s expansion into this location from its headquarters in Ohio, the Houston operations will require the establishment of new manufacturing capabilities, optimization of production processes, and alignment with corporate strategic objectives. This will include facility setup, resource allocation, and operational oversight to support long-term growth.

This role requires a strategic and hands-on leader who can deploy operational frameworks, drive financial performance, enhance production efficiency, and cultivate lasting relationships with customers and suppliers. The Vice President will play a critical role in ensuring the long-term success of both Gulf Electroquip and IDEAL Electric, upholding the mission and values of the organization while driving growth and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership: 

• Develop and implement a comprehensive manufacturing strategy aligned with the company’s overall business goals.

• Identify opportunities to drive innovation and guide product development. 

• Establish performance goals and key performance indicators (KPI’s) for manufacturing operations to ensure operational efficiency and cost optimization. 

• Maintain a strong focus on customer satisfaction while continuously improving processes, building workforce skills, and strengthening team performance to ensure competitive differentiation. 

Operational Management:

• Oversee all manufacturing operations, including facility setup, production planning, scheduling, quality control, and maintenance.

• Lead cross-functional production teams, engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain to optimize processes and workflows.

• Monitor production metrics and implement improvements to enhance productivity, reduce waste and ensure consistent output.

• Plan and manage capital expenditures related to the setup of manufacturing capabilities, equipment and facility upgrades.

• Continuously improve critical areas such as product quality, response times, order processing, and invoicing, while addressing operational priorities like safety, margin performance, labor efficiency, and cost control.

Financial Oversight: 

• Prepare and manage the manufacturing budget, ensuring effective cost control and achieving profitability targets.

• Analyze financial performance data and provide detailed reports to the President.

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational improvements.

• Collaborate with the sales team to develop sales and production forecasts, supporting financial stability and planning.

Team Leadership: 

• Build and develop a high-performing leadership team within the manufacturing organization.

• Foster a collaborative culture by promoting servant leadership, encouraging input from team members, and creating an inclusive work environment. 

• Champion safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Focus on talent development and succession to ensure a strong pipeline of leadership within the organization.

• Drive a culture of cross-training and skills development to enhance employee versatility and engagement.

• Act as the primary liaison between the Houston and Ohio location and leadership team, ensuring effective communication and reporting. 

• Provide regular updates on performance, challenges, and opportunities to the President & other leadership members.

External Relations: 

• Strengthen partnerships with critical customers and suppliers to ensure alignment and long-term success.

• Represent the company in industry events and conferences, building relationships with key clients and suppliers.

• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies and best practices to keep the company at the forefront of innovation.

Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, or Manufacturing Management is preferred, but relevant experience will be considered in place of a degree.

·        At least 10 years of proven executive leadership experience within the manufacturing sector, with strong preference for electric motor manufacturing and/or repair or a closely related industry.

·        Proven ability to oversee and integrate operations across production, finance, and strategic planning functions.

·        Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic plans aligned with organizational objectives.

·        Strong leadership skills with a track record of building and managing high-performing cross functional teams.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to effectively engage with employees, clients and suppliers.

·        Experience in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis and profitability optimization.

·        Proven expertise in applying 6S manufacturing principles and leading continuous improvement projects.

·        Strong proficiency in MS Office Suite and experience working with ERP systems.