Overview
We are seeking an experienced Sr. Production Manager to lead and oversee multi-shift manufacturing operations. In this role, you will guide Production Managers and their teams to achieve key performance indicators across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, and Productivity.
This leader will play a critical role in developing a world-class manufacturing culture built on continuous improvement, Lean methodology, standardized work, and frontline team empowerment.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership
- Promote a culture where Safety and Stability are the highest priorities.
- Lead Production Area Managers across Welding, Machine Shop, Paint, and Assembly.
- Ensure effective spans of control through Production Managers, Group Leaders, and Team Leaders.
- Develop leaders through coaching, standardized work, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Build a Stop, Call, Wait culture to address abnormalities quickly and drive root-cause problem-solving.
- Develop Skills Matrices and training plans; partner with HR on new-hire onboarding.
Production & Performance Management
Ensure daily, weekly, and monthly production targets are met.Collaborate with Scheduling Teams to set and execute production plans.Minimize overtime by ensuring proper staffing and capacity planning.Track KPIs and drive action plans for improvement.Ensure standardized work is audited and adhered to across the facility.Promote Visual Factory principles and maintain 5S across all areas.Lead daily Gemba walks, maintain area boards, and track issues through resolution.Work closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Inventory Leaders.Capacity Planning
Evaluate 3-, 6-, and 12-month capacity needs based on demand forecasting.Maintain and update the plant capacity model.Develop staffing budgets and workforce plans for all production departments.Present capacity plans during SIOP meetings and collaborate on constraint mitigation.Continuous Improvement
Drive Lean and Continuous Improvement initiatives across operations.Coach leaders and frontline teams in Lean tools and methodologies (Kaizen, 5S, standardized work, etc.).Lead cost-reduction and efficiency-improvement projects.Promote a learn by doing culture focused on small, incremental improvements.Must-Have Qualifications
10+ years of manufacturing leadership experienceStrong experience leading multi-shift operationsProven background implementing Toyota Production System (TPS) or Lean Manufacturing (710 years minimum)Experience with high-mix / low-volume production environmentsSAP proficiencyStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsSupervisory experience managing Production Managers and large teamsStrong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionallyAbility to manage diverse workforces and maintain a flexible schedulePreferred Qualifications
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt / Black Belt)Experience using Kanban, JIT, 5S, Kaizen leadership, and other Lean methodsDemonstrated success improving throughput, reducing waste, and lowering defect ratesExperience with SPC (Statistical Process Control) and data-driven decision makingEducation
Bachelors degree required (Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related fields preferred)