Job Purpose
The organization is seeking an accomplished and strategic Manufacturing Director to lead and oversee all manufacturing operations for advanced defense products. This pivotal role requires a leader with a proven background in armaments production, exceptional supply chain expertise, and an in-depth understanding of the global defense landscape. The Manufacturing Director will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and security throughout the end-to-end manufacturing process.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership: Direct and manage the entire manufacturing lifecycle for defense products, including arms, ammunition, and precision systems (e.g. unmanned aerial vehicles/drones)
- Supply Chain Management: Oversee the end-to-end defense supply chain, from strategic sourcing of raw materials to final product delivery, ensuring resilience, security, and compliance with stringent international standards
- Production Excellence: Drive manufacturing excellence by implementing world-class processes, Lean principles, and advanced technologies to optimize productivity, reduce costs, and ensure impeccable quality control
- Supplier & Market Intelligence: Manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
- Maintain a deep understanding of competitor activities, market dynamics, and emerging technologies within the global defense sector
- Compliance & Security: Ensure all manufacturing activities and supply chain logistics adhere to the highest levels of regulatory compliance, national security protocols, and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) equivalent standards
- Budget & Strategy: Develop and manage the manufacturing budget, forecast operational needs, and contribute to the long-term strategic growth of the division
- Team Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers, production managers, and technical staff
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field; A Master’s degree is highly preferred
- Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, with at least 10 years specifically within the defense industry
- Must-have expertise in manufacturing Arms, Ammunition, and/or Precision defense products (e.g. drones, guided systems, electronic warfare)
- Proven mastery of managing a complex, end-to-end defense supply chain
- Demonstrated knowledge of the global defense market, including key Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers and competitors
- Strong preference for candidates with experience in Asian or Eastern European defense markets
- Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills
*Only applicants meeting the strict criteria outlined above will be contacted as part of the shortlisting process.