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.

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• High School Diploma or GED

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

• 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

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