Position Summary

The VP of Operations is responsible for establishing, scaling, and optimizing all operational processes across production, supply chain, facilities, and quality for a fast-growing UAV startup. This role is critical to building the operational foundation necessary for sustained growth, operational excellence, and delivery of mission-critical unmanned aerial systems. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and brings a strategic, hands-on approach to leading cross-functional operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Build and lead scalable production systems for small UAS, including in-house assembly and outsourced manufacturing.
• Establish and refine supply chain processes, including sourcing strategies, vendor qualification, and procurement workflows.
• Implement and manage ERP/MRP systems to support real-time inventory, production scheduling, and order fulfillment.
• Drive quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives to meet aerospace standards and customer expectations.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration between engineering, product, and operations teams to ensure manufacturability and timely delivery of new products (NPI).
• Develop and manage KPIs across operational performance, cost, and delivery metrics.
• Support regulatory compliance, safety standards, and government contract requirements as applicable to UAV production.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing operations and production teams.
• Participate in strategic planning and long-term organizational growth initiatives

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience

• 8+ Years of relevant leadership experience in operations, manufacturing, or supply chain, preferably in aerospace, defense, or a high-tech hardware startup
• Proven Experience scaling operations from early-stage production to high-volume output

Skills

• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, supply chain management, and quality systems
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP tools and production planning software
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in dynamic, ambiguous, and fast-paced environments

Certifications

• Preferred: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher, PMP, APICS certification

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Experience in UAV, aerospace, or defense manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with DoD contract manufacturing or ISO/AS9100 standards
• Prior involvement in facility build-outs, factory layout planning, or production remp-ups
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and export compliance (e.g. ITAR, EAR)

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions - The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods across office, lab, and production floor environments
• Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs
• May require occasional travel to supplier locations or offsite facilities
• Must be able to work in a startup environment with evolving infrastructure and processes

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Salary plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.