Position: Plant Director (General Industry)
Location: Qingdao, China**
Reports to: Global COO (Headquarters)*
Company Overview
The client is a leading manufacturer group from Europe in Mechanical engineering/machine (tool) building, 'make-to-order (MTO),renowned forcommitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence. Now, we are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Plant Director to lead our manufacturing facility into its next phase of growth and efficiency.
The plant in Qingdao has around 70 people and making industrial products, made to order, on project business.
Position Summary
The Plant Manager is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all manufacturing, production, and operational activities within the facility. This individual will drive strategic initiatives to optimize productivity, ensure the highest standards of quality and safety, and manage operational budgets. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with a proven track record of implementing manufacturing principles, developing high-performing teams, and achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Execute the operational strategy for the factory, aligning with the company's overall business goals and objectives.
- Oversee all aspects of the production process, including planning, scheduling, procurement, manufacturing, warehousing, and shipping.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
Production & Performance Management
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC).
- Ensure production targets are met or exceeded while maintaining stringent quality standards and on-time delivery performance.
- Analyze production data and operational reports to identify trends, address issues proactively, and implement corrective actions.
Quality, Health, Safety & Environment (QHSE):
- Foster a culture of "Safety First," ensuring full compliance with all OSHA and other relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Champion the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring products meet or exceed customer specifications and regulatory requirements.
- Lead and manage internal and external audits.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team, including production managers, supervisors, and floor staff.
- Identify training needs and implement development programs to enhance team capabilities and foster a culture of accountability and engagement.
- Manage talent acquisition, performance reviews, and succession planning for the operations department.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management:
- Collaborate with the Supply Chain and Procurement teams to ensure a seamless flow of materials and optimize inventory levels (raw materials, WIP, and finished goods).
- Improve supply chain resilience and vendor performance.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. MBA or Master's degree is a plus.
- Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Plant Manager, Operations Manager, or Director).
- Speaks both Mandarin and English
- Consultancy or temporary contract possible