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Department Manager – U.S. Plant

Vulcaflex
  1. Role Objective

The Production Department Manager will be responsible for the operational management of one of the two departments in the new U.S. plant, ensuring the achievement of safety, quality, efficiency, productivity, and production plan targets.

This position will play a key role in the industrial start-up phase of the new facility, supporting the transfer of technologies and manufacturing processes from the Italian headquarters and contributing to the training and development of the local team.

  1. Reporting Line

The role reports directly to the U.S. Plant Manager and functionally to the Production Manager/Plant Management of the Italian headquarters.

  1. Key Responsibilities 

Start-Up Phase:

  • Collaborate with the Italian team during the installation, commissioning, and validation of manufacturing processes.
  • Support the transfer of technical know-how and company best practices.
  • Contribute to the definition of operating procedures, work standards, and process instructions.
  • Participate in the industrialization phase of new automotive products.

Overall Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and supervise production activities within the assigned department (coating or finishing).
  • Ensure compliance with the production plan in terms of volume, timing, and quality standards.
  • Monitor production KPIs (OEE, scrap, machine downtime, productivity, efficiency).
  • Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Manage production priorities and resolve operational issues.
  • Ensure compliance with automotive customer quality requirements.
  • Collaborate with the Quality department in managing nonconformities and root cause analyses.
  • Apply problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5 Whys, Ishikawa).
  • Ensure adherence to internal procedures and automotive standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
  • Ensure compliance with U.S. workplace safety regulations.
  • Promote safe behaviors and a prevention-focused culture.
  • Collaborate with HSE on audits, training activities, and departmental improvements.
  • Coordinate operators, shift supervisors, and department technicians.
  • Organize work shifts, daily activities, and resource allocation.
  • Train personnel on production, quality, and safety standards.
  • Promote a culture focused on accountability, operational discipline, and continuous improvement.
  • Support the selection and development of the local production team.
  • Serve as the operational liaison between the U.S. plant and the Italian headquarters.
  1. Technical Skills
  • Knowledge of textile manufacturing processes or technical materials.
  • Ability to read and analyze production KPIs.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing methodologies.
  • Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and reporting tools.
  • Knowledge of automotive quality standards.
  1. Management Skills
  • Operational leadership and ability to motivate work teams.
  • Hands-on problem-solving approach.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage priorities.
  • Results-oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with Italian and American technical and management teams.
  1. Role Requirements 
  • Bachelor’s degree or technical diploma (preferably in engineering, chemistry, or industrial disciplines).
  • Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma training is considered a plus.
  • 5–10 years of experience in supervisory/manufacturing roles within industrial companies.
  • Experience managing structured production departments.
  • Fluent English. Knowledge of Italian is considered an asset.