Plant Manager - Automotive Supplier

Overview

About DTS

Detroit Thermal Systems (DTS) is a leading minority‑owned automotive supplier headquartered in Romulus, Michigan. Since 2012, DTS has specialized in the development and manufacture of high‑quality heating, ventilation, and air‑conditioning (HVAC) systems and climate control components for the automotive industry, combining advanced technology with rigorous manufacturing standards and commitment to workforce diversity.

The Plant Manager is responsible for leading a large‑scale, complex manufacturing operation within Detroit Thermal Systems, with full accountability for plant performance across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and People. This role requires a highly capable leader who can launch, scale, and stabilize operations, while building a high‑performing organization capable of sustaining performance long‑term. The Plant Manager will lead all functions within the plant, including Production, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Materials, HR, Finance, and IT.

The ideal candidate is a hands‑on, strategic leader with strong financial acumen, proven experience in complex manufacturing environments, and the ability to drive results through people, process, and disciplined execution.

• Direct and manage all plant operations across Production, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Materials, HR, Finance, and IT
• Establish and drive standards‑based execution, accountability, and problem‑solving discipline
• Manage & deliver plant performance across production, quality, delivery, cost, and safety metrics
• Ensure alignment of plant operations with broader business and financial objectives

• Lead plant strengthening and Continuous Improvement efforts, urgently addressing any under performance or launch pressure
• Continuous Improvement system leadership and culture
• Lead plant launch, expansion, and/or major modernization initiatives
• Ensure full production readiness, including equipment, workforce capability, and systems integration
• Hold both plant and corporate teams accountable to ensure production‑ready systems at handoff
• Maintain strong execution discipline and engagement throughout complex launch and ramp‑up phases
• Strengthen Digital / Systems Language and data‑driven decision‑making

• Build and develop a high‑performing leadership team capable of sustaining operations independently post‑launch
• Foster a culture that is lean and process‑driven; strong daily management systems; people‑focused and engaging; fast‑paced problem solving with robust root‑cause analysis; standards‑driven in execution
• Lead performance management and succession planning across all plant functions

• Lead operations within an evolving automated manufacturing environment, supporting advanced production systems and technology
• Ensure engineering and maintenance teams are built, staffed, and prepared to support automation, uptime, and reliability
• Partner cross‑functionally to support continuous improvement and operational efficiency

• Build and lead a strong materials and logistics organization
• Ensure effective systems for:
  • Inventory control
  • Line‑side delivery
  • Supplier coordination
• Drive continuous improvement in material flow, cost, and operational efficiency

• Serve as primary plant leader for customer‑facing engagement, including executive‑level interactions
• Lead with confidence and credibility in high‑visibility situations
• Ensure delivery performance aligns with customer expectations and commitments

• Manage plant‑level financial performance, including:
  • Budget planning and execution
  • Cost control and reduction initiatives
  • Productivity and efficiency improvements
• Implement controls over:
  • Capital expenditures
  • Operating expenses
  • Labor and material costs
• Drive measurable impact on cost, margin, and overall financial performance

• Maintain plant facilities, equipment, and infrastructure for optimal performance
• Implement and sustain…