Plant Operations Manager

We are seeking an experienced operational leader to manage and optimize the performance of a manufacturing plant. This role is critical in driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
• Lead initiatives to automate manual processes and integrate advanced machining operations.
• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and maintain effective relationships with works councils and union representatives.
• Drive lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement programs across the plant.
• Collaborate within a global matrix organization to align plant objectives with corporate goals.
• Manage budgets, KPIs, and operational performance to meet financial and strategic targets.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and high-performance work environment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience managing a small to mid-sized plant of similar scale
• Strong background in machining operations and automation of manual processes.
• Demonstrated success in implementing lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience working with works councils and union representation.
• Automotive industry experience preferred, but not mandatory.
• Decisive, action-oriented leader with a strong ownership mentality and a hands-on, driver mindset focused on delivering results.
• Proactive, adaptable problem solver with excellent personal communication skills, able to engage, influence, and align teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to operate effectively within a global matrix organization.