VP, Operations

Who We Are

Piaggio Fast Forward Inc. (PFF), a Boston-based subsidiary of the Piaggio Group (creator of the Vespa  scooter), was established in 2015. PFF's mission is to build technology products that move the way that  people move, specifically addressing robotic interaction in dynamic environments. The company is committed to sustainable mobility, promoting healthy lifestyles and social connectivity through machines that augment everyday workers and people. PFF's current manufacturing portfolio includes: robotic carts  for business applications; robotic hardware and software modules; and two consumer robot models, one developed in partnership with Disney Company/Star Wars. Modular components including sensors,  electrical and mechanical components, and software are shared across products. Leveraging PFF’s  expertise in navigation and machine safety, PFF is also a prominent manufacturer of radar-based Rider  Assistance modules, integrated into tens of thousands of motorcycles and scooters globally. 

The Role

This Vice President role is responsible for overseeing operating procedures and formulating strategic  initiatives to fulfill the company's current and future needs, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and cost effectiveness. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in manufacturing and robotics  organizations, with a proven track record of scaling operations to achieve best-in-class performance. The  VP will directly supervise the Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality teams, with direct reports  including the Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Warehouse Manager, and Senior Quality  Control Specialist. This position necessitates close collaboration with the Chief Technology Officer and  Senior Director of Finance, as well as cross-functional engagement with the Electrical Engineering,  Robotics, Software, Quality Assurance, Product, and Design teams. The VP reports directly to the Chief  Executive Officer. 

What You’ll Do

• Establish operational benchmarks and allocate resources for the manufacturing, supply chain,  and quality teams to achieve strategic objectives, proactively driving continuous improvement and  defining clear accountability measures aligned with company values and goals. 
• Optimize system and structural alignment across teams and functions to maximize impact.
• Projects confidence and credibility to their team, and importantly, with an executive presence and communication style adaptable to various other stakeholders including customers, suppliers, C-level decision-makers, investors, and board members.
• Presents results monthly to the C-Level leadership of the company including forecasts and recommendations. Participates in decisions regarding company objectives and initiatives that are supported by both their insight and prompt action.
• Identifies opportunities for PFF to adopt new solutions and achieve new efficiencies in consultation with the C-suite 
• Is fiscally responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, and inventory, working closely with PFF's Sr. Director of Finance. This also includes collaborating with the Piaggio Group's Chief Financial Officer and her team on quarterly and annual reporting, as well as year-end audits.
• Owns relationships with both suppliers and OEM customers, working closely with the Executive VP of Purchasing at Piaggio Group.
• Participates in strategic discussions and presentations including interacting with the company's Board of Directors during quarterly meetings and as needed.
• Successfully represents the company to State and Municipal Government officials during factory and warehouse visits, engages in discussions on technology manufacturing and policy initiatives in state and federal working groups, and conducts press interviews.
• Capable of focusing under pressure, pivoting quickly in response to changing conditions, recovering from setbacks, and making informed decisions in stressful situations. 
• Drives team alignment, makes clear and compelling arguments with other teams, and effectively negotiates with customers and suppliers on behalf of the company.
• Builds trust and confidence across the entire company.

Requirements

• 7-10 years of operations and people management experience. 
• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience. 
• Proficiency in NetSuite MRP, encompassing PO processes, parts lists, BOM, and Demand  Planning. 
• Experience in robotics and manufacturing operations is required. 
• Experience with ASIAPAC vendors and manufacturing is preferred. 
• Demonstrated analytical/problem-solving skills, successful leadership of complex strategies and  projects, exceptional organizational agility, strong verbal and written communication, proven  projec