VP of Operations - Engineering

VP of Operations & EngineeringLocation: Sterling, MARole OverviewA rapidly growing custom industrial automation business is seeking a Technical Operations Leader to oversee operational performance and technical execution across the organisation. The business delivers bespoke automation solutions and services to manufacturers across a wide range of industries and operates as part of a broader, private‑equity‑backed automation platform.This role carries full responsibility for operational management and technical oversight of a high‑growth business unit. The successful candidate will play a critical role in scaling the organisation to support ambitious growth objectives while maintaining delivery excellence, technical quality, and a strong internal culture.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Technical LeadershipLead and manage engineering teams to ensure the successful design, build, and delivery of custom industrial automation systems.Oversee all aspects of operations, including project execution, delivery performance, and technical quality.Contribute to the strategic direction and long‑term operational vision as a member of the senior leadership team.Foster and maintain a strong culture aligned with core values centred on customer focus, accountability, execution excellence, innovation, and collaboration.Project ManagementEnsure effective project management across the portfolio, including resource planning, schedule adherence, quality standards, and budget control.Support pre‑sales activities, including solution architecture and proposal development for complex, multi‑disciplinary automation projects.Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices within industrial automation.Team DevelopmentRecruit, develop, and retain top talent across engineering and operations teams.Build a collaborative environment that promotes accountability, continuous improvement, and innovative problem‑solving.Ensure ongoing training and professional development to support both individual growth and organisational capability.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline required; advanced technical degree preferred.Leadership Experience: Minimum of 10 years of combined operational and technical leadership experience managing engineering teams within a project‑based environment.Project Delivery: Proven track record managing complex technical projects exceeding $1M in value, involving multi‑disciplinary teams and project timelines of six months or longer.Tools & Systems: Experience using ERP systems and project management platforms such as Monday.com, Wrike, Jira, Smartsheet, or similar tools.Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of industrial automation technologies, including machine vision, robotics, PLCs, HMIs, motion control systems, and industry best practices.Communication & Relationships: Demonstrated ability to lead, communicate effectively, and build strong relationships with both customers and vendor partners.Platform & Growth EnvironmentThe business operates as part of a broader automation platform that provides access to expanded resources and complementary capabilities across areas such as panel fabrication, SCADA/MES, machine vision, robotics, and advanced integration services. This structure enables the delivery of highly complex automation projects across industries including food & beverage, life sciences, aerospace & defence, and advanced manufacturing.Why JoinThis role offers the opportunity to take ownership of a growing operation where leadership sets clear expectations while empowering teams to execute. The successful candidate will help translate customer challenges into real‑world automation solutions and see those concepts delivered on the plant floor.Key benefits include:Competitive compensation with performance‑based incentives and long‑term growth opportunitiesA collaborative, low‑bureaucracy environment where leadership decisions have real impactExposure to diverse industries while leading a close‑knit team within a larger platformA culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvementCore ValuesChampion the Customer: Build trusted partnerships and do what's rightOwn It: Take accountability and drive resultsDeliver Excellence: Bring expertise, pride, and attention to detailSpark Innovation: Stay curious and continuously improveStronger Together: Support, respect, and elevate one another