Chief Operating Officer: Top Recruiters in Warren, Michigan

Warren is Michigan's most significant defense city, housing General Dynamics Land Systems' headquarters, the Army's Combat Capabilities Development Command Ground Vehicle Systems Center (DEVCOM GVS), and Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, making it the epicenter of U.S. Army ground vehicle development.

The COO of an aerospace and defense company translates strategic direction into operational reality across programs, production, and functional organizations. This executive drives program execution discipline, manages enterprise cost and schedule performance, and ensures the organization delivers on its commitments to government customers and prime contract partners.

• Oversee day-to-day operational execution across all programs, production, and shared services functions
• Drive program performance management using Earned Value Management (EVM) and integrated master schedule rigor
• Lead enterprise-wide cost reduction and operational efficiency initiatives without compromising deliverable quality
• Manage the balance between cost-reimbursable and fixed-price program portfolios to optimize enterprise financial performance
• Oversee manufacturing, quality, and supply chain organizations to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
• Develop and execute workforce planning strategies for cleared engineers, program managers, and technical specialists
• Lead cross-functional leadership teams in program reviews, risk assessments, and corrective action plans
• Interface with government Program Offices, DCMA, and DCAA on program performance and contract compliance
• Serve as the CEO's primary deputy and act in the CEO's absence with full decision-making authority
• Champion operational excellence, continuous improvement, and safety culture across the enterprise

• 15+ years in A&D operations with at least 5 years in a senior VP or COO-level role
• Demonstrated experience managing a portfolio of DoD programs
• Active TS/SCI security clearance or eligibility
• Expertise in Earned Value Management, EVMS compliance, and DoD program financial reporting
• Experience managing through government audits, DCMA oversight, and cost-plus contract environments
• Strong operations background spanning manufacturing, supply chain, and program management

• Operational Execution: Proven ability to drive on-time, on-cost performance across complex multi-program portfolios
• EVM Mastery: Deep knowledge of EVMS standards and government cost/schedule reporting requirements
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Ability to align engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and contracts organizations
• Change Management: Experience leading organizational restructuring and performance recovery efforts
• Government Customer Acumen: Skilled at managing DCMA, DCAA, and Program Office relationships

Nexoval Search Partners' dedicated Aerospace & Defense practice maintains active relationships with the executive talent community across Warren and the broader Michigan market. Our consultants conduct thorough market mapping of available passive and active candidates across the region's leading employers, from established industry leaders to innovative growth companies. Every engagement includes confidential outreach, rigorous competency-based assessment, and a shortlist in 3 to 4 weeks and typical completion in 60 to 90 days. Nexoval Search Partners' retained search model and up to 180-day replacement guarantee ensure every executive we place in Warren, Michigan delivers long-term organizational value.

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