Director, Operational Excellence at Virginia Economic Development Partnership

• Lead client initiatives related to operational excellence and leadership, mobilizing resources, setting timelines, and guiding efforts from concept to execution to achieve impactful results
• Provide leadership and guidance to internal team 
• Consult with clients to assess needs, analyze gaps, and deliver tailored solutions in operational excellence, quality systems, and process improvement. 
• Act as a trusted advisor and facilitator, coaching organizations to build high-performing operations aligned with their culture and goals
• Design and deliver engaging, client-specific training that meets diverse learning needs and incorporates interactive, visual, and audio elements
• Collaborate with colleagues, clients, and subject matter experts to develop high-quality materials, coordinate logistics, and ensure seamless training delivery
• Maintain and grow expertise in relevant subject matter areas, industry standards, and best practices through ongoing research and development
• Partnering with internal teams to design, improve, and support user-friendly systems for tracking milestones, deliverables, and feedback to enhance operational efficiency

 Job Qualifications:

• Mission focused with deep commitment to making a positive impact
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities
• Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chain, safety, and quality systems
• Ability to analyze complex workflows and identify areas for improvement
• Ability to effectively communicate/interact with individuals at all levels in the organization
• Strong stakeholder management skills
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Strong written, verbal communication, and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated commitment to lifelong learning and personal development
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and training approaches
• Preferred qualification includes bachelors degree in manufacturing or industrial engineering (other fields may apply) from an accredited university

Experience Desired:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in operations, process improvement, or manufacturing leadership roles
• Substantial experience:
• Lean Manufacturing
• Six Sigma - Certified Black Belt or Master Black Belt 
• Kaizen and Continuous Improvement
• Change Management
• Project Management (PMI Certification a plus)
• Quality Systems Management (ASQ Certification a plus)
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing transformation initiatives
• Track record of navigating ambiguity typically associated with startups.
• Familiarity with Quality 4.0, data analytics, and performance metrics (KPIs)
• Extensive experience in instructional design, development, and facilitation
• Experience with Microsoft office suite and technical aspects of instructional design
• Substantial private sector experiences working and consulting in and/or with large, multinational firm(s)

Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.

This position is based in VEDPs Richmond Office three days each week with the option to telework two days each week according to VEDPs hybrid work policy.

 All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. A valid Virginia drivers license and ability to obtain a passport is required. Salary Minimum: $110,000. Application deadline: November 21, 2025.

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDPs intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or [email protected]. TDD 1-800-828-1120.