Manufacturing Manager/Director

About HEN HEN Technologies is a purpose-driven organization pioneering the development of advanced tools for firefighting in both wildland and structural applications. Utilizing principles of fluid dynamics and thermal science, we have designed a range of products poised to redefine fire suppression techniques. Our dedication to innovation has earned recognition and support from the National Science Foundation.

Role Description
HEN is constantly innovating new products to revolutionize the firefighting industry, and were seeking a Manufacturing Manager/Director to drive our manufacturing operations as we continue to scale. We are seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Manufacturing leader to oversee and optimize the end-to-end operations of Production, Quality, and Supply Chain. This leadership role is critical in ensuring operational excellence, driving efficiency, and supporting business growth through effective planning, execution, and continuous improvement across the manufacturing value stream. You will work closely with product development and sales operations to ensure smooth transition of product release and timely delivery to meet company growth objectives.The ideal candidate has a strong background in operational leadership with a deep understanding of integrated manufacturing systems and quality management, with a bias to action and a hands-on approach.

This role reports to the VP of Engineering and will require being onsite in Hayward, CA a minimum of 4 days a week

Key Responsibilities:

1. Production Management
Oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations, ensuring safe, timely, and cost-effective production.
Develop and implement production plans that align with demand forecasts and inventory targets.
Lead daily/weekly production meetings to review performance metrics, troubleshoot issues, and align cross-functional teams.
Drive lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Kaizen, Six Sigma).

2. Supply Chain & Procurement
Lead end-to-end supply chain operations, including sourcing, procurement, materials management, and vendor relations.
Optimize inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing working capital.
Develop strategic sourcing strategies, negotiate supplier contracts, and evaluate supplier performance.
Ensure supply continuity and risk mitigation strategies are in place.

3. Logistics & Distribution
Oversee logistics operations including warehousing, inbound/outbound transportation, and order fulfillment.
Collaborate with sales and customer service teams to meet delivery targets and customer satisfaction goals.

4. Quality Management & Compliance
Own the Quality Management System (QMS) across the organizations manufacturing operations.
Ensure all products meet internal quality specifications, and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, FFC, NFPA).
Drive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for process and product issues.
Oversee quality audits (internal, supplier, customer) and champion a culture of continuous quality improvement.
Collaborate with Engineering and R&D to ensure manufacturability and quality in design and process changes.

5. Leadership & Team Development
Build, lead and mentor cross-functional teams including; manufacturing operations, supply chain, and quality.,
Participate in CCB (configuration control board) to ensure smooth deployment of new product launches and improvements.
Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, safety, quality, and efficiency.
Identify talent needs, conduct performance reviews, and support professional development.

6. Strategic Planning & Reporting
Develop and manage operational budgets, KPIs, and long-term manufacturing strategies.
Present performance reports and improvement plans to senior leadership.

Qualifications:
~ Bachelors degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field.
~12+ years in a manufacturing environment, with 3+ years of experience in manufacturing leadership roles, with a strong track record in production, supply chain, and logistics.
~ Proven experience implementing lean manufacturing, ERP systems, and supply chain optimization.
~ Proven track record of improving product quality and resolving sustaining issues in high-volume manufacturing.
~ Strong leadership skills, with experience managing multidisciplinary teams (quality assurance, sustaining engineering, and supplier quality).
~ Experience working with global supply chains for quality improvements.
~ Strong aptitude for hands-on leadership and problem solving
~ Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
~ Exceptional leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration abilities.


~ Base Salary range for this role will be $190k to $220k + equity + benefits. Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience.