Manufacturing Director - Aerospace & Defense

mselect is looking to hire a Manufacturing Director for an Aerospace & Defence manufacturing client in Doha, Qatar. Candidates must have a minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, with at least 10 years specifically within the defence industry.

Job Purpose

The organisation is seeking an accomplished and strategic Manufacturing Director to lead and oversee all manufacturing operations for advanced defence products. This pivotal role requires a leader with a proven background in armaments production, exceptional supply chain expertise, and an in-depth understanding of the global defence landscape. The Manufacturing Director will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and security throughout the end-to-end manufacturing process.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership: Direct and manage the entire manufacturing lifecycle for defence products, including arms, ammunition, and precision systems (e.g. unmanned aerial vehicles/drones)

Supply Chain Management: Oversee the end-to-end defence supply chain, from strategic sourcing of raw materials to final product delivery, ensuring resilience, security, and compliance with stringent international standards

Production Excellence: Drive manufacturing excellence by implementing world-class processes, Lean principles, and advanced technologies to optimise productivity, reduce costs, and ensure impeccable quality control

Supplier & Market Intelligence: Manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers

Maintain a deep understanding of competitor activities, market dynamics, and emerging technologies within the global defence sector

Compliance & Security: Ensure all manufacturing activities and supply chain logistics adhere to the highest levels of regulatory compliance, national security protocols, and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) equivalent standards

Budget & Strategy: Develop and manage the manufacturing budget, forecast operational needs, and contribute to the long-term strategic growth of the division

Team Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers, production managers, and technical staff

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field; A Master’s degree is highly preferred

Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, with at least 10 years specifically within the defence industry

Must-have expertise in manufacturing Arms, Ammunition, and/or Precision defence products (e.g. drones, guided systems, electronic warfare)

Proven experience of managing a complex, end-to-end defence supply chain

Demonstrated knowledge of the global defence market, including key Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers and competitors

Strong preference for candidates with experience in Asian or Eastern European defence markets

Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills

*Only applicants meeting the strict criteria outlined above will be contacted as part of the shortlisting process.

BH-MS1000

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