Production Zone Manager

Job Description

This role is responsible for leading all production activities within an assigned manufacturing unit to achieve world-class performance in safety, quality, delivery, and cost. The successful candidate will drive operational excellence through lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and strong people leadership while developing a high-performing, engaged workforce. This position is designed for a high-potential operations leader with the business acumen, financial awareness, and a strategic mindset.

Main Tasks

• Operations & Performance Leadership

• Lead all production activities within your assigned unit to ensure safe, high-quality, and on-time delivery of customer orders
• Drive performance across key metrics: Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost (SQDC)
• Optimize production flow, machine capacity, and resource utilization to meet business targets
• Own unit-level budgeting and cost control; identify and deliver year-over-year productivity and savings improvements
• Ensure compliance with IATF/TS, ISO 14001, and internal quality standards throughout the production lifecycle

• Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Champion lean manufacturing principles, including 5S, TPM, and waste reduction initiatives
• Lead structured problem-solving using RPS / 8D methodologies
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and reliability
• Ensure production documentation, standards, and procedures remain accurate, audit-ready, and compliant
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain teams

• Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of frontline supervisors and production associates
• Foster a high-performance, inclusive culture aligned with MANN+HUMMEL values
• Drive workforce planning, staffing, and skills alignment to meet production needs
• Identify training needs and build development plans to strengthen team capability
• Ensure fair, consistent application of HR policies and promote employee engagement

• Safety & Compliance

• Champion a zero-incident safety culture; ensure strict adherence to safety and environmental policies
• Lead audits and ensure closure of all non-conformances
• Maintain a clean, organized workplace aligned with 5S and operational discipline standards

Your Profile

• Education:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Experience:

• 5+ years experience in manufacturing operations
• 3+ years of leadership experience in a production environment

• Skills:

• Strong problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills
• Working knowledge of IATF/TS (e.g., TS 16949) and ISO 14001 standards
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Strong business and financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, productivity initiatives, cost reduction programs, and understanding key P&L drivers in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive business results through strategic decision-making, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business
• Experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing environments
• Lean / Six Sigma certification or equivalent experience