About the Organization

Our organization is a global leader in aerospace, defense systems, and advanced engineering solutions, delivering mission-critical technologies that support national security, aviation innovation, and next-generation defense capabilities. With operations spanning North America, Europe, and key international markets, we design, manufacture, and support highly complex systems including aircraft platforms, defense electronics, autonomous systems, and precision-engineered components.

Operating in one of the most regulated and performance-driven industries, our success depends on operational precision, quality assurance, compliance, and continuous improvement at scale. The complexity of aerospace and defense programs, combined with long development cycles, strict regulatory oversight, and global supply chain dependencies, requires a highly disciplined and data-driven approach to operational excellence.

The organization is currently undergoing a transformation focused on digital engineering, smart manufacturing, integrated supply chain optimization, and enterprise-wide performance management systems. These initiatives are designed to enhance program delivery, reduce costs, improve quality, and strengthen operational resilience.

We are seeking a Director of Business Excellence to lead enterprise-wide initiatives focused on operational performance, process optimization, quality improvement, and continuous improvement frameworks across engineering, manufacturing, and program management functions.

This role will work closely with executive leadership, program directors, and operational teams to implement scalable methodologies that drive measurable performance improvements and ensure alignment with strategic objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and execute enterprise-wide business excellence and continuous improvement initiatives across engineering, manufacturing, and program operations.

• Design and implement Lean, Six Sigma, and operational excellence frameworks to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve performance.

• Establish standardized processes, performance metrics, and best practices across global operations.

• Drive improvements in program execution, cost performance, schedule adherence, and quality outcomes.

• Oversee implementation of data-driven performance management systems and KPI dashboards.

• Partner with program management teams to optimize program delivery and lifecycle performance.

• Lead cross-functional transformation initiatives focused on process standardization, risk reduction, and operational scalability.

• Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense regulatory standards, quality systems, and certification requirements.

• Identify opportunities for digital transformation, automation, and advanced analytics integration.

• Develop and lead training programs to embed a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline.

• Monitor and report on transformation progress, including cost savings, productivity gains, and quality improvements.

• Collaborate with supply chain and manufacturing teams to improve end-to-end operational efficiency.

• Provide executive-level reporting on performance and transformation initiatives.

Job Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

• MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is highly preferred.

• 12–18+ years of experience in business excellence, operations, or continuous improvement within aerospace, defense, or highly regulated industries.

• Proven track record leading enterprise-wide transformation and operational improvement programs.

• Strong understanding of aerospace quality standards, regulatory compliance, and program management frameworks.

• Experience working across global operations and multi-site environments.

• Strong analytical capabilities with experience in performance metrics, process optimization, and data-driven decision-making.

• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead cross-functional teams.

• Experience implementing digital tools and technologies to support operational excellence.

Personal Capabilities and Qualifications

• Strategic thinker with a strong operational and process-oriented mindset.

• Exceptional leadership and change management capabilities.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Ability to influence and collaborate with executive leadership and program teams.

• Results-driven with a focus on measurable business impact.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex concepts into actionable strategies.

• High level of discipline, integrity, and commitment to quality excellence.

Strategic Support

The Director of Business Excellence will play a critical role in shaping the organization’s long-term operational strategy and performance improvement roadmap.

Key contributions include:

• Driving enterprise transformation initiatives aligned with program performance and operational excellence goals.

• Supporting digital engineering and smart manufacturing initiatives.

• Enhancing operational efficiency through standardization and process optimization.

• Aligning performance frameworks with corporate strategy and regulatory requirements.

• Strengthening organizational capabilities through training, development, and a continuous improvement culture.

Working Conditions

• Senior leadership role within a global aerospace and defense organization.

• Collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and program management teams across multiple regions.

• High-performance, regulated environment requiring precision and accountability.

• Travel required for site visits, program reviews, and operational oversight.

Job Function

Senior leadership role responsible for driving enterprise operational excellence, continuous improvement, performance management, and process optimization across a global aerospace and defense environment.

Compensation & Benefits

Total Compensation Package: $308,000 – $409,000

Compensation includes:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives
• Long-term equity and incentive plans
• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement and financial planning programs
• Leadership development and continuous improvement certification programs
• Paid executive leave and flexible work arrangements
• Travel and executive-level benefits package

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to lead operational transformation within one of the most complex and mission-critical industries in the world. As Director of Business Excellence, you will directly influence how advanced aerospace and defense systems are designed, produced, and delivered.

You will work alongside world-class engineers, program leaders, and executive stakeholders to build a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline that drives performance at scale.

For leaders seeking a role that combines strategic impact, technical complexity, and global influence, this position offers the opportunity to shape the future of operational excellence in aerospace and defense.