Factory Manager (precision machining) - Relocate to Thailand

The Factory Manager (FM) will lead the day-to-day operations of a medium-sized precision machining operation and provide management oversight to the general automation manufacturing team with a total workforce of 120 employees. The FM will oversee all aspects of the organization, including production, staffing, quality control, finance, operations, sales, and strategic development. This role requires a seasoned leader with experience in manufacturing, automation, and operational excellence.

Working Conditions:

- Full-time position based in Thailand as an expatriate.

- Standard office hours, with the potential for occasional evening or weekend work based on business needs.

- Occasional travel may be required for client visits, visit to HQ in Shenzhen or sister organizations within the company , trade shows, or supplier meetings.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

- Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, implement and monitor performance metrics for timely production, manufacturing efficiency, safety, and product quality.

- Lead and collaborate with engineering and design teams to ensure product specifications and project timelines are met.

- Drive business collaboration between Thailand team and other business units and factories in China and other geographic locations (India, Vietnam, Singapore and Penang).

2. Leadership and Staff Management

- Design organizational structure and build core leadership teams and periodically review departmental structures and staffing.

- Foster a positive and high-performance culture with a focus on accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration.

- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of managers and staff. Provide coaching and professional development opportunities for staff at all levels.

- Ensure compliance with labour laws, health and safety regulations, and company policies.

3. Strategic Planning & Execution:

- Develop and implement mid to long-term operational strategies to support company growth, profitability and strategic goals and monitor to ensure effective implementation.

- Drive process improvement initiatives and technology adoption to optimize production and operational efficiency.

- Identify and capitalize on business opportunities, such as new markets, clients, or product lines.

4. Financial Management:

- Prepare and manage operational budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

- Monitor financial performance and implement effective control measures to drive profitability and meet budgeted targets.

- Collaborate with the finance team to develop forecasts and financial reports.

5. Customer Relations and Sales Support:

- Work closely with the sales team to ensure customer needs are met and satisfaction is achieved.

- Assist in the development and execution of strategies for customer retention and new business development.

- Address any escalated customer complaints or issues to ensure positive resolution and long-term relationships.

- Engage with key customer management personnel regularly to build on long term business relationships

6. Quality Assurance & Compliance :

- Ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory compliance in all production processes.

- Lead initiatives to improve quality control and implement corrective actions as necessary.

- Promote a culture of quality assurance and continual improvement throughout the organization.

- Ensure compliance with quality standards and certifications (e.g., ISO9001:2015).

- Perform quality inspections and audits of finished products.

- Work closely with the quality control department to resolve any product discrepancies.

7. Technology and Automation Integration:

- Stay abreast of advancements in precision machining, automation, and manufacturing technologies.

- Lead efforts to incorporate new technologies and automation processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

- Collaborate with other machining and automation business units within the company to leverage expertise and costs in the operations in Thailand.

8. Reporting & Communication:

- Provide regular reports to the CEO on company performance, including operational metrics, financial status, and strategic initiatives.

9. Ensure all operational activities and performances are geared to achieving company operating profitably and achieving positive shareholder returns.

10. Other competencies specific to Machining operations:

Health and Safety Compliance:

 - Enforce and maintain a safe working environment in accordance with OSHA regulations and company safety protocols.

 - Lead regular safety training and ensure all employees are up to date on safety standards.

Inventory and Supply Management:

 - Manage inventory levels of raw materials, tools, and machine components to ensure smooth production flow.

 - Coordinate with suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of necessary materials and parts.

Maintenance and Equipment Management:

 - Ensure machines are regularly maintained and kept in optimal working condition.

 - Develop and implement a preventive maintenance program to reduce downtime.

 - Oversee the installation, repair, and calibration of machines.

 - Track machine performance, identifying areas for improvement.

Production Management :

 - Ensure production processes meet quality standards and customer specifications.

 - Collaborate with the engineering and design teams to review blueprints and production orders.

 - Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to machining processes and production schedules.

 - Ensure all jobs are completed within budget and in a timely manner.

Required Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Manufacturing, or related field (MBA or equivalent is a plus).

- Alternately a Diploma or Higher Diploma in Engineering from a reputable institution may be considered if coupled with relevant experience.

- Minimum of 15 years of work experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role in a precision machining, manufacturing, or automation environment.

- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control, and automation technologies.

- Proven track record of managing large teams and driving operational efficiencies.

- Solid understanding of financial management, budgeting, and P&L responsibility.

- Experience in leading change management and process improvement initiatives.

- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Must be able to read/write/speak in English proficiently as you will need to communicate with major international customers.

- Must be fluent in Chinese speaking to communicate with China HQ

Additional Qualifications (will be an added advantage) :

- Experience in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.

- Familiarity with ERP systems and advanced manufacturing software.

Benefits :

- Competitive salary based on experience.

- Paid Annual leave of 14 days and addition of 1 day leave for every year of service, up to a maximum of 20 days.

- Insurance: To be covered under group company policy for you and your immediate family if they are based in Thailand. The insurance will cover in-patient, out-patient, and accident coverage.

- Accommodation in Thailand will be provided by the company to your choice and rental budget of up to THB15,000 maximum per month.

- Personal travel allowance (4 return trips to home per year) for you and your family -1 trip per year (maximum 4 persons)

- Company car and mobile phone allowance related to work will be provided by the company.

- Opportunity for career advancement and professional development.

CEO/ Corporate Business Development Director

2 rounds - with Director & Panel