Ready to shape the future of fun?
At Vortex, we have been bringing communities, businesses, and families together with innovative aquatic structures since 1995. We are proud to have created 10 000 custom installations spanning 50 countries and 5 continents! Vortex creates precious memories for thousands of families around the world every day.
If you want an exciting career in an environment that values innovation and collaboration, we’d love to hear from you. We welcome all applicants and are committed to diversity, equity and ensuring everyone is empowered to succeed.
The Vice President of Operations will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for scaling and optimizing manufacturing, supply chain, and operational excellence across North America and Europe. This leader will drive efficiency, innovation, and growth across multiple sites, including facilities in Montreal (QC), Plattsburgh (NY), and key European operations.
As Vortex expands its physical and commercial footprint, the VP of Operations will play a central role in shaping the company’s operational strategy and enabling sustainable global growth. This position is designed for a results-driven, strategic leader with the potential to assume broader executive responsibilities as the company continues to evolve.
Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Execution
Partner with the CEO and leadership team to define and execute long-term operational strategies that support corporate growth and geographic expansion.
Translate strategic goals into scalable operational plans aligned with financial, technological, and market objectives.
Lead cross-functional collaboration with Finance, R&D, Sales, and Customer Experience to align resources, priorities, and performance targets.
Anticipate future capacity, talent, and technology needs to ensure operational readiness for continued growth.
Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve throughput across all sites.
Drive Industry 4.0 and AI-enabled initiatives—including automation, robotics, and advanced analytics—to modernize operations.
Oversee ERP and digital transformation initiatives to ensure real-time visibility and data-driven decision-making.
Establish and monitor performance KPIs, leading root-cause analysis and structured improvement programs.
Track and report on sustainability initiatives, including carbon footprint, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.
Budget & Financial Management
Develop and manage operational budgets across all manufacturing sites.
Conduct cost analyses and implement efficiency measures to achieve year-over-year improvements in margin and productivity.
Collaborate with Finance to support accurate forecasting, cost modeling, and capital investment decisions.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Oversee end-to-end supply chain operations, from procurement through logistics and delivery, ensuring reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Lead capacity planning, demand forecasting, and inventory optimization to maintain high accuracy and reduce carrying costs.
Standardize global operational processes to ensure scalability and consistency across regions.
Support site launches, expansions, and transition projects to enable seamless operational growth.
Ensure compliance with import/export regulations, customs documentation, and safety standards.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
Build, mentor, and develop high-performing teams across multiple locations, fostering collaboration and accountability.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.
Strengthen leadership depth within operations to support organizational continuity and succession readiness.
Foster cross-cultural communication and collaboration among North American and European teams.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or Operations Management; MBA or Master’s preferred.
10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing or industrial operations leadership, ideally with multi-site and international exposure.
Proven success leading digital transformation, automation, and continuous improvement programs.
Strong financial acumen and proficiency with ERP systems and data analytics.
Demonstrated ability to translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or PMP certification considered an asset.
Bilingual in French and English, with exceptional communication and leadership presence.
Collaborative, results-oriented, and capable of influencing and inspiring across all levels.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, budgets, and deadlines effectively.
Bilingual (French and English), with an intermediate level of English required.
Willingness to travel up to 20% and thrive in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment.
Proficiency in English is required for this role as approximately 40% of the responsibilities involve regular communication with stakeholders based in the United States and Europe.
Direct Reports
Production Manager
Quality Manager
Director, Manufacturing Engineering & Continuous Improvement
Director, Material Management
Why This Role Matters
Vortex is at an exciting stage of growth — expanding into new markets, advancing its digital transformation, and scaling its operations globally. This role offers a unique opportunity for a seasoned operational leader who can drive excellence today and help shape the company’s future.
For the right candidate, this position provides the platform to make a lasting impact and grow into expanded executive responsibilities as Vortex continues its evolution.
Splash into fun!
