Benefits:
Bonus based on performance
Overview
The Vice President of Operations (VPO) will lead and oversee all day-to-day production, fulfillment, and operational functions across our screen printing and embroidery divisions. This executive will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, profitability, quality, and efficiency across all facilities. The VPO will work closely with ownership to execute strategic growth initiatives, optimize workflow systems, and scale production capabilities while maintaining our commitment to craftsmanship, speed, and quality.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Oversee all production departments including Screen Printing, Embroidery, Heat Press, Finishing, Shipping, and Receiving.
Establish and enforce KPIs for production efficiency, order turnaround time, cost control, and quality metrics.
Lead weekly production and operations meetings with department heads to monitor performance, solve bottlenecks, and align goals.
Develop and implement scalable SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for all stages of production and fulfillment.
Ensure facility organization, safety compliance, and preventive maintenance schedules for all equipment.
Strategic & Financial Oversight
Collaborate with ownership to plan annual budgets, staffing, and capital expenditures.
Identify operational inefficiencies and implement systems to reduce waste, overtime, and rework.
Monitor production costs and margins by department; drive profitability through better planning and labor utilization.
Partner with finance to forecast material usage, labor cost, and production overhead.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, and mentor production managers and supervisors to build a high-performing leadership bench.
Promote a positive and accountable culture centered on teamwork, precision, and pride in workmanship.
Conduct regular performance reviews, establish clear goals, and provide coaching for continuous improvement.
Systems & Technology
Lead the implementation and optimization of shop management software (e.g., Printavo, ShopWorks, DecoNetwork).
Improve data tracking, production scheduling, and order accuracy through technology and automation.
Collaborate with IT and design departments to streamline art approval, job ticketing, and production workflows.
Quality, Customer Experience & Fulfillment
Maintain the highest standards of product quality across all decoration methods.
Work cross-functionally with the sales, art, and customer service teams to ensure on-time, accurate, and high-quality order delivery.
Oversee all outbound logistics, shipping partners, and post-production inspection processes.
Growth & Expansion
Evaluate production capacity for new revenue streams such as DTF, sublimation, or promotional product integration.
Contribute to facility layout planning and potential multi-location expansion.
Support acquisitions and onboarding of new production teams or businesses into the operational framework.
Qualifications
5+ years of experience in screen printing, embroidery, or apparel manufacturing operations, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
Proven success leading multi-department production teams in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Deep technical understanding of screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer, and finishing processes.
Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage budgets, track KPIs, and optimize margins.
Experience implementing ERP/MIS systems (Printavo, ShopWorks, etc.) and operational dashboards.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma experience is a plus.
Performance Metrics
Production throughput and on-time delivery rate
Quality assurance metrics and rework percentage
Labor and overhead cost efficiency
Employee retention and training compliance
Achievement of budgeted gross profit targets
Compensation
Competitive base salary
Annual performance-based bonus
Health, dental, and vision benefits
Paid vacation and holidays
Leadership equity potential after tenure