Director - Plant Head - Automobile Supplier (22-30 yrs)

Our client is Tier 1 Automobile MNC with the turnover of 2000 cr in India Operations

Job Summary:

The plant head is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing plant's operations. This role is critical in driving operational excellence, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and implementing robust systems to enhance overall plant KPIs. The Operations Director will lead the plant's strategic initiatives, focusing on lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and the integration of advanced technologies to ensure the plant's competitiveness in the market.

Reporting directly to the India MD, the Operations Head will collaborate closely work with other senior leaders to align operational strategies with the company's overall business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management:

- Lead and manage the plant's operations team, including Manufacturing, production, quality control, maintenance, supply chain, and logistics.

- Develop and execute operational strategies that align with the company's vision, driving long-term growth and profitability.

- Ensure that all plant operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

Operational Efficiency:

- Oversee the development and implementation of plans to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and lower production costs.

- Monitor and analyze production metrics, identifying bottlenecks and implementing process improvements to optimize throughput and minimize downtime.

- Lead initiatives to enhance energy efficiency, reduce material usage, and optimize labor productivity.

Cost Reduction:

- Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities across all areas of the plant, including raw material usage, labor, energy consumption, and maintenance.

- Collaborate with the procurement team to negotiate better terms with suppliers and optimize inventory management.

- Drive the implementation of cost-effective technologies and processes that deliver sustainable cost reductions.

System Improvement:

- Develop and enhance manufacturing systems and processes to improve accuracy, consistency, and reliability.

- Lead the integration of new technologies, automation, and digital tools to enhance operational control and data-driven decision-making (Industry 4.0 initiatives).

- Ensure that all plant systems are scalable and adaptable to meet future growth and production demands.

Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement:

- Champion lean manufacturing principles across the plant, driving a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

- Lead the deployment of lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and Six Sigma to improve process efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.

- Foster an environment where continuous improvement ideas are encouraged, evaluated, and implemented.

Strategic Planning:

- Collaborate with the MD and senior leadership team to develop and execute the plant's strategic roadmap, ensuring alignment with overall business goals.

- Lead the development of long-term capacity planning, production forecasting, and investment strategies to support business growth.

- Manage capital projects, including the planning, execution, and successful delivery of new production lines, equipment upgrades, and facility expansions.

Quality Management:

- Oversee the plants quality management systems to ensure products meet or exceed customer expectations standards.

- Work closely with the quality team to identify and address quality issues, driving continuous improvement in product quality.

- Ensure that quality metrics are integrated into all aspects of the plants operations, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery.

Team Development:

- Build and develop a high-performing operations team, providing mentorship, training, and career development opportunities.

- Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation across the operations team.

- Implement succession planning to ensure the long-term sustainability of the plants leadership and technical capabilities.

Qualifications:

- Bachelors degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or MBA is preferred.

- At least 22 years of experience in manufacturing operations, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role.

- Extensive experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.

- Proven track record of improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and implementing robust manufacturing systems.

- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and lead large teams.

- Experience with budget management, financial analysis, and strategic planning.

- Knowledge of industry-specific regulations, safety standards, and quality management systems.

- Ability to manage complex projects and drive change in a dynamic manufacturing environment.