The Vice President – HVAC Engineering & Manufacturing is a senior executive leader responsible for driving the strategic direction, innovation, and operational execution across the entire lifecycle of HVAC products. This includes engineering design, product development, large-scale manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain integration. The role focuses on delivering technically advanced, energy-efficient HVAC systems for residential, commercial, and industrial markets, ensuring both market competitiveness and regulatory compliance. The VP fosters a high-performance culture rooted in innovation, accountability, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve long-term sustainability and business growth.
Define and execute the HVAC engineering and manufacturing strategy in alignment with corporate objectives and long-range planning.
Develop and manage product development roadmaps in collaboration with executive leadership and product management.
Anticipate and respond to market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
Lead R&D and engineering teams in the design, validation, and launch of HVAC systems including heat pumps, air handlers, chillers, control systems, and ventilation units.
Implement robust stage-gate processes for product development, ensuring cost, quality, and schedule targets are met.
Drive advancements in energy efficiency, smart/digital controls, and low-GWP refrigerant solutions aligned with sustainability targets.
Oversee global and multi-site manufacturing operations with a focus on quality, throughput, and cost optimization.
Champion lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and smart factory technologies to enhance operational performance.
Align global sourcing and supplier development with production schedules and engineering requirements.
Ensure full compliance with industry standards including AHRI, UL, ASHRAE, ISO, DOE, EPA, RoHS, and REACH.
Lead quality improvement initiatives across product and process domains, focusing on customer satisfaction and warranty reduction.
Embed sustainability principles into design, materials selection, packaging, and product lifecycle strategies.
Build and mentor a high-performing team across engineering, operations, quality, and supply chain disciplines.
Drive cross-functional collaboration across design, controls, testing, manufacturing, and commercial functions.
Promote a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and performance accountability.
Executive leadership of HVAC engineering and high-volume manufacturing operations
Lifecycle management from concept to commercialization and field support
Innovation in energy efficiency, digital integration, and environmental systems
Strategic operations management in multi-facility environments
Compliance, quality, and sustainability alignment
Cross-functional and global team leadership
Organizational growth and transformation
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline (required)
Master’s degree (MS, MBA, or equivalent executive education) strongly preferred
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)
Familiarity with AHRI, UL, ASHRAE, ISO 9001/14001, and RoHS/REACH frameworks
Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in HVAC engineering, product development, or manufacturing
At least 7 years in a senior leadership/executive role in a high-volume engineered product environment
Demonstrated success in product innovation, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance in global settings
Expertise in HVAC systems, thermodynamics, heat exchangers, air distribution, and refrigerant technologies
Proficiency with CAD/CAE tools, ERP/MES systems, and digital manufacturing platforms
Strong understanding of capital planning, manufacturing KPIs, and ROI-driven decision-making
Visionary leadership with executive-level presence
Strategic thinker with a strong grasp of market and technical dynamics
Proven ability to lead and influence in a matrixed, global organization
Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills