Vice President of Smart Manufacturing

Why join us?

Our purpose is to design for the good of humankind. It's the ideal we strive toward each day in everything we do. Being a part of MillerKnoll means being a part of something larger than your work team, or even your brand. We are redefining modern for the 21st century. And our success allows MillerKnoll to support causes that align with our values, so we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

GENERAL PURPOSE
The Vice President of Smart Manufacturing is responsible for leading MillerKnoll's global digital transformation within manufacturing and operations. This executive-level role defines and executes the enterprise-wide Industry 4.0 strategy and drives the implementation of advanced technologies (e.g., IoT, MES, AI, automation, robotics, digital twins) across all manufacturing locations. The role ensures global alignment with corporate strategic objectives while fostering a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. This leader collaborates with cross-functional partners to deliver scalable and sustainable smart factory solutions that transform how we make-faster, smarter, and more sustainably.
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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
* Define and lead the strategic vision for Smart Factory and digital manufacturing transformation across all global production sites.
* Partner with cross-functional leaders (IT, Supply Chain, Engineering, Product Development, Operations) to integrate digital capabilities across systems and processes.
* Oversee the successful deployment of technologies such as MES, SCADA, IoT, robotics, AI, digital twins, CAM/CNC programming, and data analytics platforms.
* Develop and govern global standards, KPIs, and performance frameworks to ensure consistent, measurable implementation of Smart Factory initiatives.
* Guide change management strategies that support the adoption of digital practices and foster a culture of innovation across manufacturing teams.
* Lead large-scale enterprise initiatives, ensuring strong communication, leadership alignment, and regional adaptability.
* Build and mentor a high-performing technical organization with global reach, including direct and indirect teams.
* Manage relationships with technology vendors, research institutions, and innovation partners to accelerate value delivery.
* Oversee digital manufacturing budgets, capital investments, and resource planning to align with strategic priorities.
* Champion a safe, efficient, and people-centered approach to digital factory environments.
* Performs additional responsibilities as requested to achieve business objectives.
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QUALIFICATIONS
* Demonstrated experience leading global digital manufacturing strategies and transformation programs at scale.
* Deep technical expertise in Industry 4.0 technologies including MES, SCADA, robotics, AI, IoT, digital twins, and automation systems.
* Proven track record of delivering measurable operational improvements through smart factory implementation.
* Strong analytical, financial, and strategic thinking skills; ability to manage complex projects across multiple regions.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, including experience influencing executive leadership.
* Proven ability to lead cross-functional global teams and drive cultural change in complex, matrixed environments.
* Demonstrated leadership competence as defined in MillerKnoll's Leadership Skills and Behaviors.
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Education/Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Operations, or related field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.
* 15+ years of experience in manufacturing or supply chain roles with increasing responsibility.
* 10+ years leading digital or Industry 4.0 transformation programs, ideally in a global organization.
* Experience managing high-performing technical teams, capital programs, and external vendor partnerships.
* Experience with ERP, MES, PLM, SCADA, CAM/CNC systems, and digital infrastructure deployment.
Skills and Abilities
* Strategic vision and tactical execution capability within a digital manufacturing context.
* Strong business acumen and understanding of value creation in a manufacturing setting.
* Expertise in scaled agile project methodologies and enterprise-level program management.
* Advanced problem-solving and decision-making skills grounded in data and system thinking.
* Demonstrated experience managing multi-million-dollar capital programs and digital technology investments.
* Ability to navigate complex global organizations and build consensus across cultural and functional boundaries.
* Skilled in coaching, mentoring, and developing leaders within a diverse and global team.

Who We Hire?

Simply put, we hire qualified applicants representing a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. MillerKnoll is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veterans from every branch of military service, and more. Here, you can bring your whole self to work. We're committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities.

MillerKnoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact MillerKnoll Talent Acquisition at careers_help@millerknoll.com.