Senior Operations Manager - Automotive

Suzhou Shi Permanent View Job Description
An automotive company with a strong brandHighly competitive salary and package
  • An automotive company with a strong brand
  • Highly competitive salary and package

About Our Client

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Operations Manager to optimize the manufacturing operations of automotive industry. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in high-volume production environments, with deep expertise in lean manufacturing, supply chain coordination, and quality control systems (IATF 16949). This role requires a hands-on person who can drive operational excellence, reduce costs, and ensure on-time delivery to global OEM clients.

Job Description

  1. Operational Strategy & Execution
    • Develop and implement production strategies aligned with business goals, focusing on efficiency, scalability, and quality.
    • Oversee end-to-end manufacturing processes (assembly, testing, logistics) for wiring harnesses, ensuring compliance with automotive standards (LV220, USCAR).
    • Manage production planning, capacity utilization, and inventory control to meet fluctuating customer demands.
  2. Supply Chain & Vendor Management
    • Collaborate with procurement teams to optimize supplier relationships, negotiate costs, and mitigate supply risks.
    • Ensure timely delivery of raw materials (connectors, cables, terminals) and manage supplier performance metrics.
  3. Quality & Compliance
    • Lead continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen) to reduce defects and enhance product quality.
    • Oversee compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and customer-specific requirements (e.g., PPAP, FMEA).
  4. Team Leadership & Development
    • Mentor and manage a team of production supervisors, engineers, and support staff.
    • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and innovation across shift operations.
  5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Partner with engineering, sales, and logistics teams to align production schedules with new product launches (APQP) and customer forecasts.
    • Resolve cross-departmental bottlenecks and drive data-driven decision-making.
  6. Cost Management
    • Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives through process automation, waste reduction, and resource optimization.
    • Prepare and present operational performance reports to senior leadership.

The Successful Applicant

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (MBA preferred).
  • Experience:
    • 8+ years in automotive manufacturing, with 3+ years in a senior operations role (automotive electronic experience mandatory).
    • Proven track record in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
    • Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and automotive quality standards.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Expertise in DFMEA/PFMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis.
    • Knowledge of wiring harness design principles, crimping processes, and testing protocols.
  • Leadership:
    • Ability to lead change management in unionized environments (preferred).
    • Strong communication skills to interface with C-level executives, clients, and global teams.

What's on Offer

  • Our client is a Tier-1 supplier to global automakers, pioneering innovations in electric vehicle (EV) and autonomous driving technologies.
  • Competitive compensation, performance bonuses, and opportunities for global career growth.
  • A culture that values collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.
Contact
Tina Lv
Quote job ref
JN-022025-6662735

Job summary

Function
Engineering & Manufacturing
Subsector
Engineering & Manufacturing Subsector
Industry
Industrial
Location
Suzhou Shi
Contract type
Permanent
Consultant name
Tina Lv
Job reference
JN-022025-6662735

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