Launch Manager - Liverpool

Job Description

Launch Manager Liverpool £60,000 SF Recruitment are currently supporting a leading global supplier of automotive components in search of a Launch manager . Their product portfolio spans across automotive components and systems, including instrument panels, console systems, door panels, headlinersand overhead systems to automakers around the world. The Role To aspire to manage a world-class manufacturing site, meeting customer service and quality requirements at optimum cost, through effective management and development of operations. Key Responsibilities Ensure that the Plant meets its legal and Company obligations with respect to safety, environmental and hygiene factors in line with Company policies and procedures through Launch related activities. Be an active and integrated member of the Program Team and develop a detailed knowledge of the products and processes required for developing the Plant. Liaise and report Program Status and progress to the Technical Manager and site Senior Management. Manage the Launch Accountability Process and communicate through the Plant Meeting Cadence. Participate and assist in PFMEAs and process flow development. Co-ordinate and deliver prototype part requirements, employing PDCA methodology to develop and enhance the products and processes in preparation for program launch. Lead and deliver new product launches into the Plant utilizing the skills of the Program Team Members. Maintain, promote and improve the health and safety culture and environmental awareness and performance on the site. Work closely with the customer ensuring good working relationships and unrivalled support, particularly through the Customer Service Administrator, assisting with both arising issues and continuous improvement activities. Participate in all customer-related cost down activities and new product introduction. Contribute to the overall operational management of the plant by recommending sound policies and strategies that support the business objectives. Cultivate strong, clear leadership and vision within the Plant, creating a continually improving environment, which promotes manufacturing innovation and encourages excellence and achievement to flourish. Lead Change Management processes from conception through Prolink through to successful Launch. Lead all Manufacturing Engineering activities from Process Flow, Layout, Equipment Specification through to timely introduction, whilst observing the Manufacturing Readiness Process. Contactable out of normal working hours in order to respond to urgent customer enquiries. Budgetary Responsibilities Participate in the generation of annual business plan and departmental budget, and its continued monitoring to ensure the achievement of set targets. Generic Success Measures All products and processes launched on time to the Customer MTP All build dates / deliveries met within Plant control PPAP/PSW achieved in line with MTP Products must meet QMS expectations for manning & cycle time 100% maintenance of Launch Room and daily meeting cadence Launch Readiness Review held monthly / weekly as required and up to date in line with Prolink deliverables Prolink deliverables managed and closed according to Program timing Qualifications Person Specification: Engineering or Project Management qualification (essential) Valid driving license (essential) Numerate & literate to minimum O level / GCSE "C" (essential) Relevant degree/diploma (desirable) Experience Proven experience in fast paced manufacturing operations (essential) Supervisory and/or people management experience, preferably in manufacturing unit (essential) Experience of new product launches (essential) Experience of automotive parts, manufacture and supply (desirable) Behaviours Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels (essential) Influencing and persuasive style with a "can do" attitude and propensity to problem solve (essential) Ability to manage time effectively and prioritise tasks according to customer requirements (essential) Analytical thinker (essential) Business / Functional Skills Strong customer focus with the ability to deal with issues as they arise (essential) Effective situational leadership skills (essential) Strong presentation skills (essential) Computer literate, in particular with MS Office and preferably MS Project (essential) People management skills, particularly dealing with difficult situations such as absence, poor performance and behaviours (essential) Knowledge of lean manufacturing ideologies, i.e. 5S, Kaizen, SMED (desirable) If you would like to be considered for this role please send your CV to Mark at