Assistant Plant Manager - Dearborn Truck Plant

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The Assistant Plant Manager is the “COO” of the plant, has a holistic understanding of manufacturing and business operations, taking full accountability of plant operations and culture aligned with Ford’s leadership core values of Excellence, Focus, and Collaboration and a servant‑leadership mentality. In addition to domain expertise (business, data, technical acumen, and manufacturing proficiency), the Assistant Plant Manager will demonstrate the following Ford Operating System and Servant Leadership capabilities:
Excellence.

• Leverage data and insights to drive lean improvements that deliver on cost and quality targets.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve processes and outcomes, leveraging KPIs and the PDCA model.
• Hold self and others accountable for excellence and adherence to operational and behavioral expectations.
• Effectively collaborate with Area Managers, Process Coaches, and Hourly Employees.
• Develop “leaders as teachers” and prioritize ongoing development and evaluation of employee performance to drive results.
• Lead implementation of the Ford Production System aligned with lean principles and behaviors.
• Lead transformation and change‑management efforts to advance the company’s competitiveness.
• Elevate concerns/risks and recognize achievements.

• Serve as partner to Plant Manager and change agent driving results and leveraging relationships to get things done.
• Establish and operationalize a local vision and mission through clear goal‑setting and communication.
• Ensure operational stability by implementing disciplined processes and standards, meeting jobs per hour, rolled‑throughput‑yield, quality, and other key metrics.
• Be a strong problem solver who can lead effectively under pressure and crisis manage when necessary.
• Manage costs and resources responsibly for the betterment of the plant.

• Demonstrate self‑awareness and a deep understanding of employee aspirations, strengths, and well‑being, evidenced by employee engagement scores, regular check‑ins, and time spent on the plant floor (80%).
• Partner with Plant Manager to build a positive and inclusive culture by leveraging diverse viewpoints and mutual respect.
• Foster collaboration on best practices, standardized work, and building networks across functional areas.
• Build strong relationships with employees, Employee Resource Groups, the union, suppliers, and cross‑functional teams.
• Consistently demonstrate empathy and Gemba, engaging regularly with employees on the plant floor to listen and problem‑solve.
• Role model authenticity and inspire through charismatic communication and leading by example.
• Bring a high level of energy and effort to all tasks.

The minimum requirements we seek:

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in an engineering or technical field.
• 5+ years of progressive responsibilities and experience in operations leadership.
• Extensive experience in high‑volume, complex, manufacturing environments.
• Expertise in lean, kaizen and TPS is a must.
• Basic understanding of managing a Profit and Loss statement, demonstrating strong financial acumen.
• Experience successfully leading a manufacturing function and directly overseeing 50+ hourly employees at once.
• Demonstrated track record of building trust and rapport with employees and stakeholders and creating positive and healthy cultures.
• Aspiration for continued career growth and new challenges.
• Must be open to relocation.

Seniority level:
Mid‑Senior level

Employment type:

Full‑time
Job function:
Management and Manufacturing
Industry: Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

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