Area Manager HSAP

As a Stamping Area Manager, you will be responsible for leading daily manufacturing operations within the stamping department, ensuring the achievement of business objectives through strong leadership, data-based decision making, and continuous improvement. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize production performance while fostering a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and employee development.

The ideal candidate combines technical manufacturing expertise with exceptional leadership skills and has a proven ability to develop people, solve complex operational challenges, and drive sustainable process improvements using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities 

• Lead daily stamping operations to achieve Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Maintenance, People, Environmental and Innovation (SQDCMPEI) objectives.
• Develop, coach, and mentor salaried and hourly team members to maximize engagement and performance.
• Drive a culture of accountability, inclusion, teamwork, and continuous learning.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, prioritize improvement opportunities, and make informed business decisions.
• Lead problem-solving activities using structured methodologies and root cause analysis.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, waste elimination, quality, and cost reduction.
• Ensure compliance with Ford manufacturing standards, environmental regulations, and safety requirements.
• Monitor and improve key manufacturing performance indicators.
• Support the implementation of new products, equipment, and manufacturing processes.

Key responsabilities

• Ensure a safe working environment and promote a strong safety culture.
• Deliver production commitments while meeting quality and cost targets.
• Develop talent through coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
• Utilize manufacturing data and KPIs to drive operational decisions.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma improvement projects.
• Promote an inclusive and respectful work environment.
• Champion standardized work and continuous improvement across the organization.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Several years of progressive leadership experience in automotive manufacturing, preferably within stamping operations.
• Experience leading large manufacturing teams in a high-volume production environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Proven experience leading continuous improvement initiatives.
• Advanced English proficiency, both written and verbal.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• 5-6 years of experience 

Must Have Skills

• Strong people leadership and coaching abilities.
• Data-driven decision making using manufacturing metrics and KPIs.
• Six Sigma practitioner with experience applying DMAIC and statistical problem-solving tools. (Six Sigma Black Belt certification).
• Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement.
• Root Cause Analysis (5 Why, Fishbone, A3, PFMEA, Control Plans, etc.).
• Production planning and manufacturing execution.
• Cross-functional collaboration.
• Performance management and talent development.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Advanced English proficiency.

Highly Desirable Skills

• Experience in automotive stamping operations.
• Knowledge of Ford Production System (FPS) or similar manufacturing systems.
• Experience with automation and Industry 4.0 manufacturing technologies.
• Statistical analysis using Minitab or similar software.
• Change management experience.
• Project management experience.
• Knowledge of PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and other automotive quality tools.

Education Preference

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. Master's degree is considered a must.

Competencies to be Gained

• Advanced manufacturing leadership in a world-class automotive environment.
• Strategic decision making using operational analytics.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Ford Production System principles.
• Leadership of cross-functional, high-performing teams.
• Continuous improvement and operational excellence practices.
• Organizational development and talent management.
• Large-scale manufacturing operations management.
• Exposure to global manufacturing best practices and collaboration across Ford's worldwide operations.