Strategic Operations Manager (Expansion Strategy)

Position Overview

We are seeking a Strategic Operations Manager to lead facility expansion and site development initiatives that support the company's next phase of growth. This role is responsible for planning, delivering, and operationalizing new facilities, manufacturing expansions, test environments, and strategic infrastructure projects from concept through occupancy and operational readiness.

The ideal candidate combines expertise in facilities development, project management, real estate, and operational planning with a strong ability to coordinate cross-functional teams. This individual will own projects end-to-end while leveraging AI-enabled tools and automation to improve site selection, project execution, reporting, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of facility expansion projects, including manufacturing sites, engineering facilities, test environments, and operational infrastructure
• Manage site selection activities, including location analysis, due diligence, feasibility assessments, and recommendation development
• Lead land acquisition, lease negotiations, property transactions, and facility development activities
• Coordinate permitting, zoning, environmental reviews, regulatory approvals, and compliance requirements
• Manage facility design, construction, renovation, and occupancy projects from initial requirements through completion
• Develop and maintain integrated project schedules aligned with company growth plans, operational milestones, and production objectives
• Coordinate with architects, engineering firms, contractors, consultants, brokers, utilities, and government agencies
• Lead AI-enabled initiatives focused on site analysis, project tracking, document review, reporting, and operational efficiency improvements
• Manage cross-functional readiness activities involving Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, Environmental Health & Safety, Information Technology, and Human Resources
• Conduct operational readiness reviews to ensure facilities, personnel, systems, equipment, and processes are prepared for launch
• Develop and manage facility budgets, capital expenditure plans, forecasts, and project spending
• Monitor project performance, risks, and schedule impacts while driving mitigation actions and recovery plans
• Coordinate infrastructure requirements, including utilities, power, security, technology, environmental, and safety requirements
• Prepare executive presentations, business cases, project updates, and decision-support materials for leadership

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field
• PMP, CAPM, or similar project management certification preferred

Experience:

• Minimum 7 years of experience in facilities planning, real estate development, construction management, strategic operations, capital projects, or related disciplines
• Experience managing multiple complex projects simultaneously from planning through completion
• Experience supporting facility expansion, operational readiness, infrastructure development, or construction programs
• Experience managing external vendors, contractors, consultants, and development partners
• Demonstrated hands-on experience utilizing AI tools, automation platforms, or advanced analytics solutions within project management or operational environments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, or other industrial facility development experience
• Experience supporting test facilities, manufacturing campuses, mission-critical infrastructure, or specialized operational environments
• Experience working with government agencies, economic development organizations, or public-private partnerships
• Experience with site selection, land acquisition, lease negotiations, and facility transactions
• Experience leveraging AI-driven solutions for project management, operational planning, scheduling, or reporting
• Experience securing economic development incentives, grants, tax abatements, or similar programs
• Knowledge of zoning, permitting, environmental compliance, and construction regulations
• Experience managing capital projects with budgets exceeding $10 million
• Experience supporting rapidly growing organizations undergoing expansion and scaling initiatives

Soft Skills:

• Strong ownership mentality and end-to-end accountability
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with executives, government agencies, contractors, and cross-functional teams
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to execution excellence
• Ability to manage competing priorities and complex stakeholder environments
• Adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and process improvements
• Calm and effective decision-making under pressure

Technology Stack:

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Teams
• Microsoft SharePoint
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft Project
• Smartsheet
• AI assistants and generative AI tools
• Microsoft Copilot
• ChatGPT
• Claude
• Power Automate
• Bluebeam
• AutoCAD Viewer
• Google Earth
• GIS platforms
• Oracle NetSuite or similar ERP systems
• Construction management platforms such as Procore

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to review construction drawings, facility plans, contracts, budgets, and project documentation
• Frequent travel of approximately 30–40% to operational sites, construction projects, and partner locations
• Ability to walk construction sites, undeveloped property, industrial facilities, and uneven outdoor terrain
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions when supporting site evaluations and construction activities
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction and operational environments
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds

Benefits & Perks

At AST, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Company-Paid Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Company-Paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Supplemental Benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays
• Career Growth and Development Opportunities

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.