Head of Manufacturing Workshop

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Manufacturing Workshop to oversee and lead the manufacturing workshop within our Liquid and Powder Technologies (LPT NAM) division. Serving the Food, Dairy, Beverage, and Chemical industries, the Head of Manufacturing Workshop will be responsible for managing the end-to-end operations of manufacturing drying technologies and equipment for these sectors. This role demands a dynamic leader who will ensure the successful design, production, and delivery of innovative and high-quality equipment while aligning manufacturing practices with the strategic goals of the company.

In this role, the Head of Manufacturing Workshop will be responsible for optimizing production processes, ensuring quality standards, and leading a diverse team in a fast-paced, evolving market. This position offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on the company's growth while enhancing operational excellence across the workshop.

Responsibilities / Tasks

• Leadership & Management:
  • Lead and manage the workshop team to ensure high productivity, morale, and adherence to company values and safety standards.
  • Drive a culture of continuous improvement, fostering innovation and operational efficiency across manufacturing processes.
  • Collaborate with the senior management team to align manufacturing strategies with the broader goals of the LPT NAM division and the company’s vision.
  • Develop and implement effective talent management and succession planning strategies to maintain a skilled workforce.

• Manufacturing Operations:
  • Oversee the manufacturing of technologies and equipment used in Liquid & Powder Technologies for the Food, Dairy, Beverage, and Chemical industries.
  • Ensure adherence to production schedules, cost controls, and quality benchmarks.
  • Optimize resource utilization, ensuring smooth coordination between production, procurement, and logistics to avoid delays and inefficiencies.
  • Ensure that all manufacturing activities comply with industry regulations, safety standards, and company protocols.

• Quality Control & Assurance:
  • Work closely with the Quality Control team to ensure the highest standards of product quality are met throughout the production cycle.
  • Ensure that equipment design and manufacturing processes comply with customer-specific needs and applicable regulatory requirements in the food, beverage, dairy, and chemical industries.
  • Review and approve design specifications, production processes, and product testing protocols to ensure reliability and safety.

• Financial & Budgetary Oversight:
  • Develop and manage the manufacturing budget, ensuring cost-effective practices and optimal resource allocation to meet production goals.
  • Monitor financial performance, identifying areas for cost reduction and process optimization.

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with Engineering, R&D, and Sales teams to align manufacturing activities with customer requirements and technological innovations.
  • Liaise with the Sales team to understand client needs and translate those into actionable manufacturing solutions.

• Supply Chain & Inventory Management:
  • Ensure effective coordination with the procurement team to maintain adequate inventory levels and avoid production disruptions.
  • Oversee inventory management practices, ensuring efficient handling and timely availability of raw materials and components.

Your Profile / Qualifications

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in business administration, manufacturing, engineering (mechanical, industrial), or related field. 

• Experience:
  • At least 10 years of experience in manufacturing management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, ideally in the Liquid & Powder Technologies sector or related industries (Food, Dairy, Beverage, or Chemical).
  • Proven track record in manufacturing complex process equipment, particularly for drying technologies.
  • Strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies is advantageous.

• Technical Skills:
  • Expertise in manufacturing techniques, process design, and industrial automation.
  • Familiarity with CAD, CAM, or other design software used in manufacturing processes.
  • In-depth knowledge of regulatory standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, ISO) relevant to the food, dairy, beverage, and chemical industries.

• Leadership & Communication:
  • Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with internal teams, customers, and suppliers.
  • Ability to balance strategic thinking with day-to-day operational execution.

• Problem Solving & Decision-Making:
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with a proven ability to make data-driven decisions.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with drying technologies for the Food, Dairy, Beverage, or Chemical industries.
• Knowledge of international manufacturing standards and global best practices.
• Track record of driving lean initiatives and process optimization in a manufacturing environment.

Working at GEA Group has significant benefits:

• 12 Paid Holidays
• PTO - Paid Time Off
• Medical Plans
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings and Spending Accounts
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401k with excellent employer match
• Wellness Incentive Program
• Employee Assistance Program

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GEA Group is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all clients and employees feel welcomed, accepted and valued. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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