Director of Engineering, Manufacturing & Automation

Job Description

Job Description

Apply only if you have worked in automotive manufacturing, OEM or Tier one companies.

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Director of Engineering, Manufacturing & Automation to lead the strategic, operational, and financial performance of a growing organization serving the automotive manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation technology, capital equipment, automotive OEMs, and Tier 1 suppliers , with a proven track record of driving growth, operational excellence, and profitability.

The Director will work closely with senior leadership and key stakeholders to develop and execute strategic initiatives, optimize operations, foster innovation, and strengthen the company's competitive position in the marketplace.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:
   • Develop and implement the company’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with long-term goals and market opportunities.
   • Mange all aspects of the organization’s operations.
   • Cultivate innovation and continuously enhance the company's competitive position in the marketplace.
2. Operational Management:
   • Oversee completion of all Projects, ensuring products are delivered efficiently and on budget.
   • Develop and maintain systems for measuring operational performance and efficiency, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and continuous improvement initiatives.
   • Drive operational efficiencies and identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
3. Financial Oversight:
   • Establish financial goals, budgets, and forecasts, and ensure that the company meets its financial objectives.
   • Oversee capital investment strategies and optimize profitability through cost control, resource management, and pricing strategies.
   • Manage relationships with financial institutions, investors, and other stakeholders to secure necessary funding for expansion, innovation, and growth.
4. Team Leadership & Development:
   • Build and lead a high-performance leadership team, ensuring effective delegation, motivation, and development of talent at all levels of the organization.
   • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement across all departments.
   • Provide mentorship and coaching to senior managers, promoting a collaborative and solution-oriented work environment.
5. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:
   • Serve as the face of the company in interactions with external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, industry associations, and the public.
   • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, business partners, and investors to support business growth.
   • Communicate the company’s vision, mission, and values internally and externally, ensuring alignment and buy-in from all stakeholders.
6. Risk Management & Compliance:
   • Ensure that the company operates in full compliance with applicable regulations, including environmental, health, and safety standards.
   • Identify and mitigate risks related to operations, supply chain disruptions, market conditions, and financial stability.
   • Oversee corporate governance and ensure that the company adheres to ethical business practices.
7. Innovation & Technology Integration:
   • Drive the adoption of new technologies to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
   • Encourage a culture of innovation across the organization to stay ahead of industry trends and customer demands.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • BS in, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred).
• Experience:
  • At least 5-10 years of progressive leadership experience, with a proven track record in managing large-scale operations – preferably with Automation and Capital Equipment.
  • Experience in strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, supply chain management, lean principles, and industry standards with the Automotive OEMs.
  • Experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and managing multi-million-dollar P&L responsibilities.
  • Entrepreneurship running a personal company is a plus.
• Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate, inspire, and develop a diverse workforce.
  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze complex business challenges and devise effective solutions.
  • High level of business acumen and financial literacy, with experience in managing profitability and business growth.
  • Experience with digital transformation, automation, and technology integration in manufacturing settings is a plus.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Visionary with a focus on long-term growth and sustainability.
  • Results-driven, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
  • Integrity, professionalism, and commitment to ethical leadership.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time, on-site position with occasional travel required.
• Competitive compensation package, including performance-based incentives and benefits.

SAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.

Company Description

SAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.