Operations Head - Multi-Segment Vehicle Assembly

Lead One of the World's Most Diverse Automotive Assembly Operations

The Opportunity:

- This is not just another automotive plant role. We are a premier global contract manufacturer, a trusted partner to over 15 world-class brands. Our legacy is built on assembling more than 150,000 vehicles-from luxury sedans and rugged pickups to commercial trucks and city buses. We don't just build one product; we bring the manufacturing dreams of brands like BMW, Land Rover, John Deere, Volvo, Hyundai, and Yutong to life, all under one roof.

- We are seeking an operational pioneer to lead this complex, multi-faceted assembly ecosystem. This is a career-defining role for a leader who thrives on unique challenges, possesses deep manufacturing expertise across multiple vehicle segments, and is driven to leave a legacy on the global automotive stage.

The Role:

As the Global Operations Head, you will hold full P&L and operational responsibility for our entire assembly footprint. You are the strategic leader who will ensure we deliver world-class quality, efficiency, and flexibility to our diverse, demanding client portfolio. You will be the key interface between our world-class clients and our world-class execution on the floor.

Key Responsibilities:

- Multi-Segment Production Leadership: Oversee the simultaneous assembly of passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs), light & heavy trucks, and buses. Optimize disparate workflows, takt times, and line layouts to achieve peak efficiency across high-volume and low-volume, high-complexity lines.

- Client-Focused Operational Excellence: Serve as the senior operations partner for our blue-chip clientele. Understand and implement their unique quality and process standards (e.g., BMW, John Deere, Volvo) while maintaining our own rigorous IATF 16949 certified system.

- Complex Supply Chain & Inventory Mastery: Design and manage a hyper-agile supply chain capable of supporting a vast array of vehicle platforms without disruption. Implement robust JIT and JIS systems to manage the flow of everything from car interiors to truck chassis and bus bodies.

- Zero-Defect Quality Culture: Champion a culture of perfection. Establish and enforce client-specific and internal quality benchmarks, utilizing advanced problem-solving methodologies to achieve zero-defect launches and sustained production.

- Talent & Leadership Development: Mentor and develop a large, multi-skilled team and leadership group. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and excellence that can adapt to the needs of any brand we serve.

Who You Are: The Ideal Candidate Profile

- You are a strategic operations leader with a proven track record in managing complex, multi-platform manufacturing environments. You are as comfortable in the boardroom with a client as you are on the shop floor.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

- A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in automotive or heavy equipment manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a Plant Director/Head of Operations role.

- Proven, hands-on experience managing assembly operations for at least two of the following vehicle segments: passenger cars (unibody), trucks/SUVs (body-on-frame), and buses/commercial vehicles.

- Demonstrated success in a contract manufacturing, joint venture, or multi-OEM environment is a significant advantage.

- Deep, practical expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPS, and Continuous Improvement with a verifiable record of driving efficiency and quality gains.

- Exceptional client relationship management and communication skills, with the experience of interacting with senior executives from global corporations.

- A degree in Engineering or a related field; an MBA or advanced degree is preferred.

- The resilience, cultural intelligence, and leadership presence to inspire a large team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Location & Appeal:

- This role is based at our flagship facility in South Africa. We are seeking a leader with a global mindset and a pioneering spirit. For the right candidate, this role offers:

- An Unparalleled Professional Challenge: Lead one of the most complex and diverse assembly operations in the world.

- Significant Autonomy & Impact: The authority to shape strategy and leave a lasting legacy on a key player in the global automotive industry.

- A Competitive International Package: A comprehensive compensation, benefits, and relocation package designed to attract world-class talent.