Managing Director, Manufacturing Operations Advisory and Business Development

About UsAt Factory Advisors, we partner with industrial and manufacturing organizations to transform operations, unlock sustainable growth, and achieve measurable business outcomes. We don't just consult—we embed with our clients, lead change, and deliver lasting results.As part of the integrated Factory Transformation organization, combining Factory Advisors and GrayMatter, we help manufacturers connect operational excellence, digital technologies, and workforce enablement into one transformation strategy.Our differentiated approach combines:Operational Transformation to optimize people, processes, and performanceDigital Transformation to create visibility through systems, data, automation, and analyticsApproachable AI to deliver actionable intelligence directly to frontline teamsTogether, these capabilities help manufacturers close the gap between strategy and execution.The OpportunityWe are seeking a seasoned Managing Director to lead strategic manufacturing transformation initiatives at the intersection of operational excellence, business strategy, and execution.This role is ideal for a consulting leader with deep manufacturing expertise who can serve as both trusted advisor and business builder. You will help clients solve complex operational challenges while partnering across the broader Factory Transformation organization to integrate Digital Transformation and Approachable AI solutions where they create additional value.From business development and executive engagement through delivery leadership and firm building, you will own the full client lifecycle while helping shape the future of our Operational Transformation practice.This role requires up to 75% travel.What You'll DoBusiness DevelopmentServe as both strategist and operator—originating and closing Operational Transformation opportunities while guiding the full lifecycle of client relationshipsDevelop trusted advisor relationships with executive leadership across manufacturing organizationsGenerate and qualify leads, develop proposals, craft Statements of Work, and negotiate contracts with senior decision-makersDesign and execute go-to-market strategies focused on operational excellence, manufacturing transformation, supply chain performance, leadership development, and business performanceExpand existing accounts by identifying opportunities to integrate Operational Transformation, Digital Transformation, and Approachable AI capabilitiesCollaborate across Factory Transformation to bring the full complement of services to address client needsOwn and manage sales and opportunity pipeline while meeting revenue and margin objectivesBuild market credibility through thought leadership in manufacturing strategy, Lean, operational excellence, leadership systems, and business transformationStay ahead of emerging manufacturing technologies and operational trends, translating them into actionable client strategiesCase ManagementOwn revenue targets and manage profitability across an Operational Transformation portfolioLead multidisciplinary consulting teams delivering complex transformation engagementsServe as executive sponsor and engagement leader—scoping, staffing, and ensuring high-quality deliveryFacilitate executive strategy sessions with C-suite and operational leaders to define transformation roadmaps and business prioritiesTranslate complex operational challenges into scalable improvement strategies and measurable business resultsLead initiatives across manufacturing operations, Lean transformation, quality, supply chain, maintenance, leadership systems, and organizational effectivenessPartner with Digital Transformation leaders to integrate technology-enabled solutions where appropriateLeverage Approachable AI solutions to ensure operational knowledge and performance improvements are sustained at the point of workBuild long-term client partnerships by consistently delivering measurable value and trusted advisory servicesFirm BuildingHelp define and scale the Operational Transformation practice within Factory TransformationReinforce and champion the firm's integrated approach of combining operational excellence, digital enablement, and workforce capabilityBuild and mentor a high-performing consulting teamDevelop reusable methodologies, tools, playbooks, and intellectual property that integrate:Operational ExcellenceLean TransformationLeadership SystemsDigital EnablementApproachable AIPartner with GrayMatter and Factory Advisors leadership to align offerings, delivery models, and innovation initiativesLead firm initiatives including recruiting, capability development, strategic planning, and internal mentoringSupport internal training to ensure consulting teams understand and can effectively position Operational Transformation, Digital Transformation, and Approachable AI as complementary capabilitiesHelp shape the future growth, culture, and strategy of Factory TransformationRequirementsWhat You'll BringExecutive-level manufacturing leadership experience with a demonstrated track record of leading complex, multi-site operations, large-scale business transformation, and enterprise performance improvement15+ years in Director-level leadership roles with multi-site accountability, or 5+ years in a Vice President (or equivalent) role with enterprise-wide operational responsibilityDeep expertise in one or more of the following disciplines: Manufacturing Engineering, Process Engineering, Factory Operations, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or Quality EngineeringProven success building, developing, and leading high-performing teams while coaching senior leaders and creating a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellenceDemonstrated experience in management consulting, operational transformation, or professional services, serving as a trusted advisor to executive leadership teamsA successful track record of generating and growing business through net-new client acquisition, strategic account expansion, and executive relationship managementRecognized expertise in Lean Manufacturing, the Toyota Production System, Continuous Improvement, and manufacturing performance transformationStrong understanding of Digital Transformation technologies and their role in enabling operational excellence, including connected worker solutions, manufacturing systems, AI-enabled tools, analytics, and smart factory initiativesProven ability to translate operational strategy into executable roadmaps that deliver measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagementExperience leading complex, enterprise-wide transformation initiatives—from strategy development and executive alignment through implementation, sustainment, and change adoptionExecutive presence with the ability to influence and build credibility at every level of an organization—from frontline operators to C-suite executives and private equity stakeholdersExceptional leadership in project execution, facilitation, organizational change management, and cross-functional stakeholder alignment within complex manufacturing environmentsOutstanding communication, executive presentation, and facilitation skills, with the ability to simplify complex operational challenges into actionable business strategiesBachelor's degree requiredEligible to work in the United StatesPreferred QualificationsMBA or other advanced business or engineering degreeExperience in Aerospace & Defense or other regulated manufacturing industriesExperience integrating digital manufacturing technologies into operational improvement initiatives, including familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and Connected Worker strategiesBenefitsPay-for-performance bonus structure aligned with individual and firm-wide success