Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking an experienced Head of Manufacturing to lead the company's manufacturing strategy, facility buildout, and operational scaling. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of production systems, large-scale facility design, and a proven track record in managing both internal teams and external partners such as Engineering, Procurement, and Construction firms.

This role will be pivotal in driving the expansion of our production capabilities, ensuring the successful design and construction of manufacturing facilities, while optimizing processes for efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. The Head of Manufacturing will play a critical role in enabling us to meet our ambitious growth targets. The Head of Manufacturing will be responsible for the overall management, direction and coordination of all manufacturing and distribution operations. This key role will own the operational excellence strategy to deliver on efficiencies, cost, quality, capacity, safety, and customer service for both internal and external customers. You must possess a lean mindset and passion for continuous improvement. This position reports directly to the CEO and will serve as a member of the Executive Team.

What you get to do:

• Develop and execute manufacturing strategy: Define and lead our manufacturing strategy to support growth and scalability, ensuring alignment with the company’s long-term goals.
• Functions reporting to this role include Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, Corporate and Manufacturing Quality, Corporate Facilities and EH&S, Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing Engineering (plant engineering), and Production Control. A strong dotted line exists to Plant Finance and Plant HR.
• Oversee facility buildout: Lead the design, development, and construction of large-scale production facilities, collaborating closely with supplier partners and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Optimize production systems: Ensure the design and buildout of production systems allow for seamless scaling from pilot to full-scale manufacturing, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and quality.
• Champion lean system principles and methodologies for the organization.
• Supplier/Vendor management: Manage relationships with supplier partners, ensuring that project timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met while resolving any challenges that arise during the buildout process.
• Cross-functional collaboration: Work closely with engineering, commercial, planning, and finance teams to ensure alignment between manufacturing strategy, production capabilities, and overall business objectives.
• Operational excellence: Drive the optimization of manufacturing processes, implementing advanced technologies and automation to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability.
• Risk management: Identify potential risks in the manufacturing buildout and scaling process, developing mitigation strategies to ensure successful project execution.
• Team leadership and development: Build and lead a high-performing manufacturing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Travel varies but could average 50% to headquarters and manufacturing locations as needed.

What you bring to the team:

• Minimum of 15 years progressive manufacturing production management experience
• Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an automotive environment utilizing lean manufacturing principles.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in large-scale manufacturing, facility buildout, and supplier management.
• Proven track record of managing production systems and scaling operations.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Deep understanding of advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and sustainable production practices.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to make strategic decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with senior leadership and external stakeholders.
• Proven success at influencing new thought and driving creative change within a manufacturing environment.
• A forward-thinker with a solid understanding of how to formulate long-term business strategies.
• Demonstrated success in the execution of continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to manage sites/people plus the ability to lead/manage change is critical.
• Experience with distribution operations including order processing, packaging, and shipping, logistics, product storage, etc.
• Passion for growth and continuous improvement.
• High mechanical aptitude including strong working knowledge of production processes.
• Competence in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Lean Certification or Six Sigma Certification, preferred.

We want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate:

• The client is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
• The client is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures.