Pre Production Manager

Job Title:

Pre-Production Manager

Industry:

Can Making & Metal Container Manufacturing

Job Summary:

The Pre-Production Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and controlling all pre-production activities within the can manufacturing facility to ensure smooth and efficient production operations. The role oversees production planning, material readiness, tooling preparation, process optimization, resource allocation, and coordination between Production, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering departments to ensure on-time delivery and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Production Planning & Coordination

• Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production plans based on customer demand and sales forecasts.
• Ensure timely availability of raw materials, tooling, dies, coatings, inks, and production consumables.
• Coordinate production schedules with manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and warehouse teams.
• Monitor production readiness to achieve operational targets.

Process & Resource Management:

• Ensure all production lines are prepared and optimized before manufacturing starts.
• Manage machine setup planning and changeover activities.
• Optimize manpower allocation and resource utilization.
• Minimize production delays caused by material shortages or equipment readiness issues.

Inventory & Material Control:

• Work closely with Supply Chain and Procurement teams to maintain required inventory levels.
• Monitor material consumption and identify opportunities for waste reduction.
• Ensure proper control of production materials and packaging components.

Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure all pre-production activities comply with quality standards and customer specifications.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance teams to address production-related concerns.
• Support implementation of ISO, GMP, and other applicable quality systems.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Continuous Improvement:

• Analyze production data and identify opportunities to improve efficiency.
• Lead process improvement projects targeting productivity and cost reduction.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Operational Excellence initiatives.
• Reduce setup times and improve production readiness.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and develop planners, coordinators, and support staff.
• Establish KPIs and performance objectives.
• Coach and mentor team members to ensure high performance.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.

Experience:

• Minimum 6+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, production planning, or pre-production management.
• Minimum 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Strong experience within Can Making, Metal Packaging, Food Can, Beverage Can, Aerosol Can, or Container Manufacturing Industry.