VP, Global Operations (MissionOps)

Are you someone who is passionate, motivated, and driven to make a difference?  If so, MSA Safety is the perfect fit for your career. 

At MSA, SAFETY is who we are AND it is what we do.  We are a purpose-driven company committed to deploying innovation and technology to deliver on our Mission to help protect people and assets all around the world.  We continue to be relentless in our pursuit of solving our customers greatest problems so they can go home safe each and every day. 

Are you in?  Read on for more details about this particular role.

The VP, Global Operations (MissionOps) is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping and executing the company’s global operations strategy across approximately twenty manufacturing locations worldwide. This role ensures operational excellence, scalability, and resilience in a rapidly evolving market environment. The VP, Global Operations will functionally lead all aspects of manufacturing, supply chain and logistics, strategic sourcing and procurement, quality, advanced manufacturing and industrialization, and safety, driving integration and alignment across regions to deliver superior performance, cost competitiveness, and customer satisfaction.

The VP, Global Operations will serve as the architect of the company’s global manufacturing footprint and strategy, balancing efficiency, flexibility, and risk mitigation. This includes optimizing end-to-end supply chain operations, implementing advanced technologies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.The role will engage with Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE), in close partnership with New Product Development (NPD), to advance cost optimization efforts and strengthen product value in line with customer needs and business goals.

Additionally, the VP will be a champion and strong advocate for the MSA Business System, our company’s framework for getting work done through consistent behaviors, processes, and tools that drive continuous improvement and intentional problem-solving.

As a strategic partner to the CEO and the executive team, the VP, Global Operations will play a critical role in shaping and executing the company’s vision. This position is not only responsible for influencing corporate decision-making and managing significant capital investments, but also for forging deep partnerships across the business to ensure operational strategies are fully aligned with financial objectives and enterprise priorities. Success in this role depends on the ability to collaborate effectively with business leaders, translate strategic goals into operational excellence, and drive initiatives that create measurable value. It demands exceptional leadership, a global perspective, and the capability to navigate complex regulatory environments and diverse cultural landscapes while maintaining a relentless focus on business outcomes and building high-performing teams through robust talent development.

The VP, Global Operations will contribute to MSA’s success by demonstrating MSAs values while successfully achieving or exceeding performance goals and objectives for the following major job functions:

• Defines and executes a comprehensive global operations strategy that aligns with corporate objectives, drives growth, and optimizes the global manufacturing footprint and capacity planning for long-term scalability.
• Leads operational transformation initiatives by championing digitalization, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies, implementing advanced analytics for predictive performance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and agility.
• Ensures world-class manufacturing performance across all sites by overseeing production for cost efficiency, safety, and compliance, while embedding lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies utilizing the MSA Business System to reduce waste and enhance productivity.
• Builds and manages a resilient, cost-effective global supply chain by designing integrated strategies that mitigate risk, optimize logistics networks for speed and sustainability, and strengthen supplier partnerships through ethical sourcing and risk management.
• Establishes and enforces global quality standards and compliance programs, drives zero-defect manufacturing and customer satisfaction, and collaborates with R&D to integrate advanced technologies and accelerate innovation in production processes.
• Champions a global EHS culture that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance across all operations by developing and implementing proactive programs to ensure workplace health and safety, minimizing environmental impact, and achieving compliance with international standards while fostering a zero-incident mindset and sustainable operational practices.

The VP, Global Operations will contribute to and support the organization’s objectives by developing efficient global operating structures and processes, while providing deep and insightful analysis on manufacturing, supply chain, and operational performance.

This leader will be forward-thinking and provide a “big picture” perspective, serving as a strategic visionary in shaping and executing global operations strategies based on sound technical expertise, analytical ability, good judgment, and strong operational capabilities that positively influence business results.

The VP, Global Operations will bring a strong balance of strategic direction and operational excellence, collaborating closely across functions to deliver innovative manufacturing strategies, supply chain solutions, and advanced technologies that differentiate the company in the market.

This role requires operating with the utmost integrity, demonstrating influential and effective leadership skills, refined emotional intelligence, and a proven history of leading large, complex teams. The leader must champion the company’s culture and excel in a fast-paced, multi-faceted global environment, ensuring flawless oversight and execution of all operational activities, including manufacturing, procurement, logistics, quality, and EHS.

The Incumbent will:

• Demonstrate exceptional strategic judgment and decision-making, with proven experience managing complex global operations, including investment and risk management.
• Possesses strong financial acumen with deep understanding of P&L, Balance Sheet, and Income Statements.
• Synthesize complex analyses into clear, actionable recommendations and strategic plans.
• Communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including the Board, executive leadership, industry stakeholders, and the public, using facts and sound business judgment.
• Exhibit superior leadership and people skills, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to inclusive leadership and valuing diversity.
• Possess a proven ability to craft, sell, and execute strategic visions across global organizations, driving alignment in matrix environments.
• Bring global acumen with experience managing intercultural differences and leading regional and global initiatives.
• Excel at change management, inspiring transformation through clear, tailored messaging and fostering collaboration to achieve operational excellence.
• Possess a proven ability to craft, sell, and execute strategic visions across global organizations, driving alignment in matrix environments.
• Bring global acumen with experience managing intercultural differences and leading regional and global initiatives.
• Excel at change management, inspiring transformation through clear, tailored messaging and fostering collaboration to achieve operational excellence.

Experience:

The successful candidate will preferably possess a minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressive business and operations experience with a minimum of ten (10) years global leadership experience in relevant roles.

Education:

Minimum of an undergraduate degree in engineering, operations management, or related field. MBA or other graduate degree highly preferred.

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