VP Operations Job Description - Strategic Operations Leader

The VP Operations is a senior executive role responsible for leading and optimising end to end operational functions. Candidates should have proven experience in scaling operations, driving process improvement and delivering measurable performance outcomes across multiple functions. This role is suitable for experienced leaders with strategic vision, strong commercial acumen and the ability to align operational delivery with organisational objectives.

VP Operations Job Profile

The VP Operations provides strategic leadership for the organisation's operational activities, ensuring efficient, compliant and customer focused delivery. The role oversees operational planning, resource allocation and performance management to support growth, margin improvement and service quality.

The purpose of the role is to translate corporate strategy into operational plans, establish governance and metrics, and lead cross functional teams to achieve operational excellence while managing risk and cost.

VP Operations Job Description

The VP Operations will develop and implement operational strategy, policies and standards that drive consistency, efficiency and scalability. This includes ownership of operational budgets, accountability for key performance indicators and close collaboration with senior leaders in finance, supply chain, technology and commercial functions. The role requires regular reporting to the executive team and board on operational performance, risks and improvement plans.

The successful candidate will operate in a complex environment, managing multiple stakeholders and balancing short term delivery with long term capability building. Expectations include establishing robust processes, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and leading change programmes to enhance productivity and customer satisfaction. The role demands strong leadership, sound judgement and the ability to influence at all levels.

VP Operations: Duties and Responsibilities

• Define and implement operational strategy aligned with corporate objectives and growth plans
• Lead end to end operations including planning, service delivery, logistics and customer fulfilment
• Own operational P&L and ensure cost management and margin improvement initiatives are delivered
• Set, monitor and report on operational KPIs to drive performance and accountability
• Develop and maintain governance, compliance and risk management frameworks across operations
• Drive process improvement and standardisation to increase efficiency and reduce variability
• Lead cross functional programmes to support product launches, capacity changes and scaling activities
• Optimise resource planning and workforce management to meet service levels and demand fluctuations
• Implement quality management practices to ensure consistent service delivery and customer satisfaction
• Manage vendor and third party relationships to ensure contractual performance and cost effectiveness
• Build and coach high performing operations teams through clear objectives and development plans
• Oversee technology and data initiatives that enhance operational visibility and decision making
• Prepare and present operational reports and recommendations to the executive team
• Champion continuous improvement culture and lead change management activities across operational units

VP Operations: Requirements and Qualifications

• Degree in business, engineering, operations management or a related discipline
• Proven senior operations leadership experience, typically 10+ years with 5+ years in an executive role
• Demonstrable experience owning P&L and delivering measurable cost and productivity improvements
• Strong strategic thinking with a track record of translating strategy into operational plans
• Experience managing complex, cross functional programmes and large teams
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills at executive level
• Well developed analytical skills and experience using data to drive decisions and continuous improvement
• Solid understanding of governance, compliance and operational risk management
• Experience with vendor and contract management in operational contexts
• Proven change leadership capability and experience delivering transformation initiatives
• Clear communicator with strong presentation and reporting skills
• Ability to prioritise, make decisions under pressure and manage competing demands
• Commitment to developing talent and building inclusive, performance oriented teams