Job Description

Raytheon-Rafael Area Protection Systems (R2S)—a fast-growing joint venture between Raytheon and Rafael—is seeking an accomplished, operationally-minded Vice President of Product Operations (VPO) to lead the execution and scaling of our U.S.-based production capabilities, including the Iron Dome AUR and associated subcontracts.

Reporting directly to the CEO and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the VPO is responsible for strategy, oversight, and performance across Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, and Production Operations . This role will ensure operational excellence, financial sustainability, and high-quality product delivery—on time, at cost, and at scale.

The VPO will serve as the single accountable executive for all product delivery activities, working in close partnership with the VP of Programs (who owns P&L and customer delivery) to ensure alignment between production execution, program requirements, and contractual obligations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Own delivery operations across manufacturing, engineering, tooling, quality, and supply chain functions.
• Lead long-term operational strategy development in alignment with company growth goals.
• Partner with the CFO and executive team on budgeting, resource planning, and investment prioritization.
• Make high-impact decisions related to factory layout, system investments, make/buy strategy, and supply chain resilience.
• Partner with VP of Programs to translate contract requirements and program milestones into executable delivery plans.
• Ensure delivery operations comply with ITAR, DFARS, and other U.S. government regulations.

Manufacturing & Production Execution

• Ensure consistent, high-quality factory outputs and capital equipment planning.
• Drive process optimization, standardization, and safety across U.S. operations.
• Lead implementation of scalable manufacturing processes to support delivery of mission-critical systems.
• Align production milestones with program objectives, contract terms, and customer requirements.
• Oversee ERP system integration into the factory to support scheduling, cost control, and performance tracking for production.
• Implement risk-based production management and mitigation plans for key suppliers, materials, and critical path items.

Supply Chain & Quality Oversight

• Direct all supply chain functions including procurement, forecasting, logistics, outsourcing, and vendor selection.
• Oversee the implementation of quality systems, regulatory compliance, inspections, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor KPIs to ensure adherence to performance, safety, and cost standards.
• Establish supplier development programs and second-source strategies for resiliency.

Team Development & Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing U.S. operations team, spanning manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, engineering, and quality.
• Provide mentorship, set direction, and drive accountability to meet business and mission outcomes.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and safety throughout the organization.
• Hire, develop, and retain top talent; support succession planning and leadership development.
• Establish clear RACI and decision-making frameworks within the Delivery team and across the organization.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in engineering and manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional delivery teams in complex, regulated environments.
• Deep understanding of DoD contracting, acquisition, and delivery lifecycle.
• Experience in building technical teams, managing factory operations, and scaling delivery systems.
• Strong track record of operational improvements, cultural change leadership, and quality system deployment.
• Proven ability to collaborate with P&L owners and program leadership to align delivery with contractual obligations.
• Expertise in materials management, logistics, and compliance frameworks.
• U.S. Citizenship and Active Secret Clearance.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• 10+ years in technical program management roles with manufacturing and defense product delivery experience.
• Experience launching or scaling government-compliant production facilities.
• Hands-on experience with ERP (IFS/SAP) tools in a manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with safety program oversight, risk mitigation strategies, and performance-based contracting.

Key Competencies

• Leadership: Inspires action and commitment to excellence across all levels of the organization.
• Execution Focus: Prioritizes outcomes, drives decisions, and ensures timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
• Strategic Thinking: Aligns delivery operations with long-term business and mission goals.
• Collaboration: Builds strong internal and external partnerships to enable seamless execution.
• Problem Solving: Uses data and insight to navigate operational complexity and resolve issues proactively.
• Regulatory Acumen : Anticipates and navigates compliance, trade, and audit requirements with confidence.

Why R2S?

At R2S, you’ll be part of a bold, growing organization delivering world-class air defense systems in support of U.S. and allied missions. We offer:

• A flexible 9/80 work schedule and generous leave policy (including holiday shutdown)
• A culture of collaboration, agility, and innovation
• A chance to grow professionally while contributing to a globally significant mission

Location: Camden, AR

Travel: ~30% (U.S. and occasional international)

Schedule: 9/80 work schedule

Clearance Required: Active Secret (U.S. Citizenship required)
Note: This position requires eligibility to obtain a U.S. security clearance. Learn more: U.S. State Dept. Clearance Info

R2S is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected classification.

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