Job Description
Job Title: Head of Manufacturing
Salary: $125,000 – $150,000
Benefits: Healthcare, Vision, & Dental, 401K, Paid Time Off + more
Job Type: Direct Hire
Location: Warsaw IN
Job Start date: ASAP
Shift Pattern: Days
We’re supporting our client, a leading metal manufacturer based in Warsaw, Indiana who are looking for a Head of Manufacturing to join their growing team. The successful Head of Manufacturing will have experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role within a complex production environment.
Job Summary:
As a Head of Manufacturing, you’ll be responsible for managing all facets of production, logistics, and maintenance within the organisation. This position requires a solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles and is tasked with spearheading lean transformation initiatives across manufacturing teams. Key responsibilities include ensuring workplace safety, improving on-time delivery, and quality, optimising inventory, and productivity to enhance overall competitiveness. Leading a team of approximately 90 employees, the Head of Manufacturing will prioritise daily management routines, continuous improvement, align strategic goals, and foster cross-functional collaboration to support the company in achieving its business objectives.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and develop the production planning & control operations, logistics, and maintenance functions, ensuring alignment with business goals and lean manufacturing principles.
- Drive the company’s lean transformation to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimise processes.
- Ensure production operations meet safety, quality, and delivery expectations while maintaining cost efficiency.
- Own plant level operational KPIs to drive performance improvements and achieve targets.
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and teamwork within the manufacturing organisation.
- Collaborate with the VP of Operations and leadership team to define and execute operational strategies in line with company objectives.
- Develop and implement medium- and long-term manufacturing plans to support business growth.
- Identify and drive initiatives for process optimisation, cost reduction, and resource efficiency.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of manufacturing professionals, ensuring skill development and succession planning.
- Create and sustain a high-performance culture through clear expectations, feedback, and coaching.
- Foster strong engagement and collaboration within and beyond the manufacturing function.
- Ensure all production activities meet or exceed quality standards and comply with relevant regulations.
- Implement and sustain robust operational quality control processes to maintain product consistency and reliability.
- Promote a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Work closely with supply chain teams to optimise material flow, inventory management, and logistics efficiency.
- Enhance coordination between manufacturing and procurement to ensure timely availability of materials.
- Identify and develop strategic supplier relationships to improve operational performance.
- Ensure manufacturing operations align with customer expectations for quality, delivery, and responsiveness.
- Partner with sales, order management and customer service teams to address production-related customer concerns proactively.
- Drive improvements in lead times and flexibility to enhance customer satisfaction.
About You:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field.
- Proven experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role within a complex production environment.
- Expertise in lean manufacturing principles with a track record of implementing continuous improvement.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration across departments.
- Demonstrated ability to drive efficiency, cost savings, and operational excellence.
Job Application:
If you would like to be considered for this role, please apply with your full Resume – or call us now. Whilst this position may not be of interest to you or suit your skills and experience, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with a member of the team at Willcox Matthews to understand how we can support you.
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Candidates must be eligible to work and live in the USA