Head of Manufacturing

We’re supporting our client, a leading metal manufacturer based in Warsaw, Indiana who are looking for a Head of Manufacturing to join their growing team.

The successful Head of Manufacturing will have experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role within a complex production environment.

Job Summary: As a Head of Manufacturing, you’ll be responsible for managing all facets of production, logistics, and maintenance within the organisation.

This position requires a solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles and is tasked with spearheading lean transformation initiatives across manufacturing teams.

Key responsibilities include ensuring workplace safety, improving on-time delivery, and quality, optimising inventory, and productivity to enhance overall competitiveness.

Leading a team of approximately 90 employees, the Head of Manufacturing will prioritise daily management routines, continuous improvement, align strategic goals, and foster cross-functional collaboration to support the company in achieving its business objectives.

Responsibilities: Lead and develop the production planning & control operations, logistics, and maintenance functions, ensuring alignment with business goals and lean manufacturing principles.

Drive the company’s lean transformation to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimise processes.

Ensure production operations meet safety, quality, and delivery expectations while maintaining cost efficiency.

Own plant level operational KPIs to drive performance improvements and achieve targets.

Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and teamwork within the manufacturing organisation.Collaborate with the VP of Operations and leadership team to define and execute operational strategies in line with company objectives.

Develop and implement medium- and long-term manufacturing plans to support business growth.

Identify and drive initiatives for process optimisation, cost reduction, and resource efficiency.Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of manufacturing professionals, ensuring skill development and succession planning.

Create and sustain a high-performance culture through clear expectations, feedback, and coaching.

Foster strong engagement and collaboration within and beyond the manufacturing function.Ensure all production activities meet or exceed quality standards and comply with relevant regulations.

Implement and sustain robust operational quality control processes to maintain product consistency and reliability.

Promote a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.Work closely with supply chain teams to optimise material flow, inventory management, and logistics efficiency.

Enhance coordination between manufacturing and procurement to ensure timely availability of materials.

Identify and develop strategic supplier relationships to improve operational performance.Ensure manufacturing operations align with customer expectations for quality, delivery, and responsiveness.

Partner with sales, order management and customer service teams to address production-related customer concerns proactively.

Drive improvements in lead times and flexibility to enhance customer satisfaction.

About You: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field.

Proven experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role within a complex production environment.

Expertise in lean manufacturing principles with a track record of implementing continuous improvement.

Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration across departments.Demonstrated ability to drive efficiency, cost savings, and operational excellence.