Plant Director

A leading industrial organization in the automotive sectors is seeking an accomplished Plant Director to lead operational excellence and drive high-tech manufacturing performance. Key Responsibilities Oversee and optimize full plant operations, including production, manufacturing engineering, supply chain, quality, and facility maintenance Accountability for plant-level budget execution, cost management, and key operational metrics (OEE, yield, waste reduction) Lead lean manufacturing, continuous improvement (Kaizen/5S), and digital transformation initiatives across the factory floor Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to ensure successful industrialization and ramp-up of new automotive and defense projects Ensure strict adherence to ISO/IATF 16949, AS9100, EHS (Environmental Health and Safety), and defense sector regulatory standards Build, mentor, and lead high-performing cross-functional engineering, production, and technical teams Manage plant capacity planning, shop-floor resource optimization, and facility infrastructure Represent plant operations to board executive members, auditors, key OEM clients, and defense partners Candidate Profile: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or related engineering discipline; Master’s degree in Engineering Management or MBA is a plus 15+ years of total industrial experience with 5+ years of direct plant management or senior operational leadership experience in automotive, defense, or advanced manufacturing environments Proven track record in scaling factory operations, driving operational cost reductions, and applying Lean/Six Sigma methodologies Strong leadership capability in managing large-scale shop floor workforce and cross-functional technical teams Deep knowledge of regulatory compliance, quality management systems, and safety protocols required by automotive and defense OEMs Fluent in English; additional technical languages or experience with international manufacturing standards is a plus