Head of Manufacturing

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 :