General Manager

Executive Summary

Are you a visionary executive ready to command a critical segment of defense manufacturing? A premier defense contractor is seeking a dynamic, high-performing General Manager to lead our established operations in Cadillac, Michigan. Full relocation assistance is provided for this executive role.

Taking full P&L accountability for a division with a sales volume exceeding $100 million, you will drive the strategic direction, engineering, and manufacturing of critical products for the U.S. military and allied forces. This role demands sharp global business acumen, a commanding executive presence, and a proven track record of managing operations within a unionized (UAW) environment. Due to the nature of our government contracts and ITAR regulations, U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.

What You Will Do

Strategic Leadership & P&L Management

• Own the P&L: Take full financial accountability for a heavy manufacturing division exceeding $100 million in annual sales.
• Drive Business Growth: Expand market share organically by enhancing capabilities, launching new product lines, and strengthening customer relationships.
• Execute Business Plans: Turn corporate objectives into actionable, profitable operational realities.
• Financial Stewardship: Lead annual budget development, financial forecasting, pricing approvals, and cost-effective centralized services in coordination with finance management.

Defense Operations & Compliance

• Product Lifecycles: Guide the overall direction of product design, development, launch, and administration for mission-critical military equipment.
• Bid & Proposal Oversight: Oversee complex defense proposal efforts to ensure competitive positioning and total alignment with government requirements.
• Strict Compliance: Assure absolute compliance with all applicable FAR clauses, FCPA, ITAR, and international trade regulations.
• Quality & Safety: Maintain a detailed understanding of ISO 9001 standards and champion a proactive safety culture.

Labor Relations & Culture

• Labor Relations: Direct labor relations, including UAW contract compliance and active participation in bargaining negotiations.
• Talent Development: Recruit, mentor, and retain a highly skilled engineering and operations workforce.
• Inclusive Culture: Build a workplace environment centered on safety, inclusivity, trust, and alignment with corporate values.

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Advanced Degree: Master’s degree (M.A./M.B.A.) or equivalent educational background is preferred.
• Industry Experience: Minimum of 12 years of related leadership experience and/or specialized training in aerospace, defense, or heavy industrial manufacturing.
• Government Eligibility: Must be a U.S. Citizen capable of complying with all ITAR clearance and regulatory controls.
• Equivalent Mix: A proven, equivalent combination of executive education and hands-on industrial experience.

Core Competencies

• Global Business Acumen: Deep understanding of defense market dynamics, government procurement, and international supply chains.
• Change Management: Proven ability to establish strategic direction, lead cross-functional teams, and facilitate organizational change.
• Executive Presence: Exceptional communication skills to build trust with employees, military customers, suppliers, and stockholders.
• Safety Leadership: A proactive mindset dedicated to maintaining zero-harm, highly compliant manufacturing facilities.