Strategic Operations Manager (Expansion Strategy)

Position Overview

We are seeking a Strategic Operations Manager to lead facility expansion and site development initiatives that support the company's next phase of growth. This role is responsible for planning, delivering, and operationalizing new facilities, manufacturing expansions, test environments, and strategic infrastructure projects from concept through occupancy and operational readiness.

The ideal candidate combines expertise in facilities development, project management, real estate, and operational planning with a strong ability to coordinate cross-functional teams. This individual will own projects end-to-end while leveraging AI-enabled tools and automation to improve site selection, project execution, reporting, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Lead planning and execution of facility expansion projects, including manufacturing sites, engineering facilities, test environments, and operational infrastructure

Manage site selection activities, including location analysis, due diligence, feasibility assessments, and recommendation development

Lead land acquisition, lease negotiations, property transactions, and facility development activities

Coordinate permitting, zoning, environmental reviews, regulatory approvals, and compliance requirements

Manage facility design, construction, renovation, and occupancy projects from initial requirements through completion

Develop and maintain integrated project schedules aligned with company growth plans, operational milestones, and production objectives

Coordinate with architects, engineering firms, contractors, consultants, brokers, utilities, and government agencies

Lead AI-enabled initiatives focused on site analysis, project tracking, document review, reporting, and operational efficiency improvements

Manage cross-functional readiness activities involving Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, Environmental Health & Safety, Information Technology, and Human Resources

Conduct operational readiness reviews to ensure facilities, personnel, systems, equipment, and processes are prepared for launch

Develop and manage facility budgets, capital expenditure plans, forecasts, and project spending

Monitor project performance, risks, and schedule impacts while driving mitigation actions and recovery plans

Coordinate infrastructure requirements, including utilities, power, security, technology, environmental, and safety requirements

Prepare executive presentations, business cases, project updates, and decision-support materials for leadership

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field

PMP, CAPM, or similar project management certification preferred

Experience:

Minimum 7 years of experience in facilities planning, real estate development, construction management, strategic operations, capital projects, or related disciplines

Experience managing multiple complex projects simultaneously from planning through completion

Experience supporting facility expansion, operational readiness, infrastructure development, or construction programs

Experience managing external vendors, contractors, consultants, and development partners

Demonstrated hands-on experience utilizing AI tools, automation platforms, or advanced analytics solutions within project management or operational environments

Preferred Qualifications:

Aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, or other industrial facility development experience

Experience supporting test facilities, manufacturing campuses, mission-critical infrastructure, or specialized operational environments

Experience working with government agencies, economic development organizations, or public-private partnerships

Experience with site selection, land acquisition, lease negotiations, and facility transactions

Experience leveraging AI-driven solutions for project management, operational planning, scheduling, or reporting

Experience securing economic development incentives, grants, tax abatements, or similar programs

Knowledge of zoning, permitting, environmental compliance, and construction regulations

Experience managing capital projects with budgets exceeding $10 million

Experience supporting rapidly growing organizations undergoing expansion and scaling initiatives

Soft Skills:

Strong ownership mentality and end-to-end accountability

Excellent organizational and project management skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building abilities

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to communicate effectively with executives, government agencies, contractors, and cross-functional teams

Strong attention to detail and commitment to execution excellence

Ability to manage competing priorities and complex stakeholder environments

Adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and process improvements

Calm and effective decision-making under pressure

Technology Stack:

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft SharePoint

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Project

Smartsheet

AI assistants and generative AI tools

Microsoft Copilot

ChatGPT

Claude

Power Automate

Bluebeam

AutoCAD Viewer

Google Earth

GIS platforms

Oracle NetSuite or similar ERP systems

Construction management platforms such as Procore

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods

Ability to review construction drawings, facility plans, contracts, budgets, and project documentation

Frequent travel of approximately 30–40% to operational sites, construction projects, and partner locations

Ability to walk construction sites, undeveloped property, industrial facilities, and uneven outdoor terrain

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions when supporting site evaluations and construction activities

Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction and operational environments

Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds

Benefits & Perks

At AST, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

Company-Paid Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance

Company-Paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Options

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Voluntary Supplemental Benefits

Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays

Career Growth and Development Opportunities

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.