MANUFACTURING TRANSFORMATION MANAGER

Manufacturing Transformation Manager

We are seeking a seasoned Manufacturing Transformation Manager with 10?12 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing operations and digital transformation. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) implementations, lean/six sigma methodologies, and a strong background in the automotive manufacturing ecosystem. This role will spearhead the organisation's journey from traditional manufacturing to a smart, data-driven, Industry 4.0-enabled production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the end-to-end manufacturing transformation strategy aligned with business goals and Industry 4.0 vision.
• Develop multi-year transformation roadmaps covering process digitisation, smart manufacturing, and operational efficiency.
• Lead plant-level assessments (gap analysis, maturity benchmarking) and prioritise transformation initiatives.
• Partner with leadership to build business cases for transformation investments with clear ROI metrics.
• Own end-to-end MES implementation lifecycle ? from requirements gathering, vendor evaluation, solution design, go-live to hypercare.
• Define MES architecture integrating with ERP (SAP/Oracle), SCADA, PLC/DCS, quality, and warehouse management systems.
• Lead MES modules: production tracking, work-order management, downtime/OEE monitoring, quality management, genealogy, and SPC.
• Drive integration of MES with IoT sensors, edge devices, and plant-floor automation for real-time data capture.
• Ensure data integrity, system validation (IQ/OQ/PQ where applicable), and cybersecurity standards across shop floor IT/OT systems.
• Champion Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and Kaizen programmes across manufacturing plants.
• Drive OEE improvement programmes ? analyse downtime root causes, establish loss trees, and implement countermeasures.
• Lead VSM (Value Stream Mapping), SMED, 5S, and Poka-Yoke initiatives to eliminate waste and improve throughput.
• Establish KPI dashboards and real-time production monitoring frameworks (OEE, MTBF, MTTR, scrap rates, FPY).
• Lead implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies: IIoT, digital twins, connected machines, AR/VR for operator training, predictive maintenance.
• Drive automation initiatives including cobots, AGVs/AMRs, and vision systems for quality inspection.
• Develop and deploy advanced analytics and AI/ML models for predictive quality, demand sensing, and predictive maintenance.
• Establish a connected factory architecture ? plant networks, OT/IT convergence, edge-to-cloud data pipelines.
• Lead change management programmes across plants to drive adoption of new processes and digital tools.
• Build internal capabilities through training, CoE establishment, and digital literacy programmes for shop floor teams.
• Manage cross-functional project teams comprising engineering, IT, operations, quality, and supply chain.
• Engage with external vendors, system integrators, and technology partners for seamless programme delivery.
• Establish programme governance frameworks ? steering committees, milestone reviews, risk registers, and benefit tracking.
• Report transformation progress to C-suite with clear business impact metrics.
• Collaborate with procurement, finance, and HR to ensure smooth programme execution within budget and timelines.

Requirements

• B.E./B.Tech from a recognised institution.
• MBA / PGDM (preferred).
• Certifications: PMP / Prince2 | Lean Six Sigma Black Belt | MES/MOM certifications (MESA, ISA-95) highly desirable.
• 10 ? 12 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, industrial engineering, or digital transformation roles.
• Minimum 3?4 years of hands-on MES implementation experience (end-to-end ? not just support/maintenance).
• Experience in automotive manufacturing (OEM, Tier 1, or Tier 2) is a strong plus ? knowledge of APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, PFMEA.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale transformation programmes (?5 Cr+ budget) across multiple plant locations.
• Experience with ERP?MES?SCADA integration in a complex multi-plant environment.
• Strong background in at least two of: Lean/Kaizen, Six Sigma (Black Belt), TPM, TQM, APQP.

Work Arrangements

• Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
• Travel: 30 ? 40% (plant visits, implementation sites)