Production Manager - Gent (Belgium)

We are seeking a dedicated and results-driven Production Manager to lead and oversee all technical activities within our plant. In this role, you will collaborate closely with internal departments, external partners, and suppliers to ensure industrial equipment meets technical requirements while achieving key objectives in safety, quality, productivity, and cost-efficiency. You will also guide production team leaders to consistently reach performance targets.

Key Responsibilities

1. Driving Technological Leadership

Collaborate with innovation teams and external partners to identify and implement new technologies that enhance plant performance.
Initiate and execute innovation projects, including process automation, on time and within budget.
Lead production team leaders and support the maintenance team in achieving technical excellence.

2. Managing Equipment and Investments

Play an active role in defining investment needs for machinery and automation at the plant.
Define equipment specifications and ensure alignment with standardization strategies.
Lead factory acceptance tests (FAT) and site acceptance tests (SAT).
Maintain the industrial assets database and oversee unused equipment management.

3. Developing Team Expertise

Work closely with the maintenance team to develop technicians' skills through targeted training and technical development initiatives.

4. Providing Technical Support

Offer hands-on technical support for equipment interventions, modifications, and programming.
Develop and oversee action plans to meet key manufacturing targets (MKPIs).
Collaborate with the quality team to optimize assembly line parameters.
Ensure adherence to preventive and predictive maintenance plans, as well as avoid equipment obsolescence.
Provide support across all shifts as needed.

Your Profile

Experience: At least 3 years in a technical leadership role within a manufacturing environment.
Education: Strong technical/engineering background.

Key Competencies:

Expertise in pneumatics, mechanics, electrics, hydraulics, industrial communications, automation, and robotics.
Proficiency in PLC, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies.
Knowledge of IATF 16949 standards and ERP/MES/CMMS systems.
Strong skills in planning, managing change, and budget control.
Fluency in the local language; English proficiency is highly recommended.