Manufacturing Operations Lead (Based overseas)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced manufacturing professional to join our team as a Manufacturing Operations Lead (Expatriate) to support our manufacturing operations in Tamil Nadu, India. This role is ideal for a seasoned manufacturing leader with proven experience leading operations in a manufacturing environment, building high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence. The successful candidate will work closely with regional leadership to establish manufacturing capabilities, implement best practices, and develop a strong local organization.

Key responsibilities

• Provide operational leadership to support the successful establishment and growth of the manufacturing operation.
• Lead and coach cross-functional teams, including Production, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and other operational functions.
• Develop and implement manufacturing strategies to achieve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost objectives.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and Operational Excellence initiatives to improve plant performance.
• Establish and optimize manufacturing processes, workflows, and operating procedures.
• Support new product introduction, production transfers, and process validation activities.
• Monitor operational performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, employee engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Mentor and develop local managers, engineers, supervisors, and technical personnel to build sustainable organizational capability.

About you

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 12 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• At least 3 years of experience leading manufacturing operations or cross-functional operational teams.
• Demonstrated success in managing production operations and delivering improvements in safety, quality, productivity, cost, and delivery performance.
• Proven experience leading and developing managers, engineers, supervisors, and production personnel.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or similar methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Willingness to relocate and work in India.