This role’s central mission is to modernize the operation through automation—most notably by deploying AGVs, AMRs, and intelligent material‑handling systems. Beyond leading automation initiatives, the position manages all aspects of materials management, logistics, and production planning to maintain seamless flow, inventory accuracy, and effective coordination across the organization.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Operations
- Oversee material planning, production scheduling, warehousing, receiving, packaging, and inventory control.
- Ensure materials are available for production and customer orders are shipped accurately and on time.
- Partner with cross‑functional teams to maintain smooth workflow across all manufacturing processes.
- Lead a high‑performing logistics team with clear goals, communication, and accountability.
Automation & Technology Implementation (Key Focus of the Role)
- Lead the strategy, selection, and implementation of automation technologies, including AGVs, AMRs, automated storage systems, and digital material‑flow tools.
- Develop the automation roadmap for the plant, identifying opportunities to reduce manual handling, improve flow, and increase safety.
- Work closely with engineering, IT, and operations to pilot, test, validate, and scale automation solutions.
- Build business cases for automation investments, including ROI, labor optimization, and operational improvements.
- Ensure new automation systems integrate seamlessly with ERP/MRP, scheduling, warehouse management, and production systems.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify inefficiencies in material movement, inventory control, and scheduling; implement corrective actions.
- Use data to diagnose problems, reduce delivery issues, and improve logistics performance.
- Support ongoing process improvement efforts aligned with the plant’s operational excellence framework.
Customer & Vendor Interface
- Maintain strong communication with customers to ensure reliable delivery performance.
- Collaborate with vendors supporting logistics, automation, and material‑handling systems.
Team & Budget Management
- Manage salaried and hourly logistics personnel.
- Oversee departmental budgets, including freight, labor, and automation‑related expenses.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and all regulatory requirements.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- Bachelor’s degree (Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field preferred).
- 10+ years in manufacturing operations.
- 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in materials management or production operations.
- Experience in automotive manufacturing.
- SAP expertise (MM, SD, PP, WM).
- Proficiency with MRP II systems and lean/JIT inventory methods.
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, complex environment.
Preferred
- Hands‑on experience implementing AGVs, AMRs, robotics, or advanced material‑handling automation.
- Experience integrating automation with ERP/MES/WMS systems.
- Proven track record of leading large cross‑functional projects.
