Plant Manager

We are seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Plant Manager to lead the full operations of a high-volume automotive interiors manufacturing facility. This critical leadership role is responsible for overseeing all site functions—including production, quality, maintenance, supply chain, engineering, and EHS—while ensuring alignment with customer requirements and corporate objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automotive interiors (e.g. cockpits, trim, headliners, center consoles, instrument panels, seating systems), proven P&L ownership, and a deep understanding of lean manufacturing and quality systems within the automotive sector.

• Lead the end-to-end plant operations to meet business goals related to safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people (SQDCP)
• Full P&L responsibility for the site, with a focus on profitability, efficiency, and performance optimization
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, leveraging lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence principles
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and customer-specific quality standards
• Oversee and support the launch of new programs, ensuring flawless execution, ramp-up, and integration of new equipment and processes
• Maintain high standards in employee engagement, talent development, and workforce planning
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, finance, procurement, and corporate teams to align plant operations with strategic goals
• Build and maintain strong relationships with OEM customers, ensuring performance expectations and delivery schedules are consistently met
• Lead risk assessments, contingency planning, and ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance
• Monitor and report key operational metrics; implement corrective actions when targets are not met

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, or related field; Master’s degree is a plus
• Minimum 10 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior plant leadership role
• Strong knowledge and hands-on experience in automotive interiors manufacturing (e.g. plastic injection molding, assembly, foaming, trimming, sewing, etc.)
• Proven success in managing large teams (500+ employees) in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment
• Demonstrated track record of improving plant KPIs, leading transformation projects, and delivering measurable results
• Deep understanding of lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen, and OEE
• Fluent in English; additional languages (e.g. German, Spanish) are advantageous
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required