The Director of Medium and High Voltage Manufacturing plays a critical leadership role in overseeing the production and delivery of electrical equipment and systems designed for medium and high voltage applications. These products are used in power generation, transmission, and distribution networks, among other industrial and commercial sectors.
The responsibilities of this role are diverse, involving both strategic oversight and hands-on management of the manufacturing process.
Here are the key responsibilities:
Strategic Planning and Direction:
- Develop and execute strategic goals for medium and high voltage product lines, aligning with the overall business objectives
- Identify market trends and opportunities, adapting the manufacturing process to meet evolving technological demands (e.g., smart grids, renewable energy integration)
- Set long-term objectives for growth, efficiency, and sustainability in manufacturing operations
- Drive innovation in product development, collaborating with R&D to improve product offerings and manufacturing techniques
Production and Operations Management:
- Oversee the entire manufacturing process from raw material procurement to finished product delivery, ensuring high-quality standards and adherence to production schedules
- Ensure that all manufacturing activities meet safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry certifications (e.g., ISO, IEC)
- Optimize manufacturing efficiency, reducing waste, improving throughput, and controlling production costs
- Implement Lean Manufacturing or other operational efficiency methodologies to streamline processes and improve product quality
Quality Control and Assurance:
- Establish and enforce quality control standards for medium and high voltage products, ensuring compliance with international standards and specifications
- Oversee the testing and validation of electrical components to ensure they perform reliably under high voltage conditions, including temperature, pressure, and electromagnetic performance testing
- Manage corrective actions for product quality issues, coordinating with engineering and quality assurance teams
Team Leadership and Development:
- Lead and manage cross-functional teams including production, engineering, supply chain, quality assurance, and maintenance
- Provide leadership and mentorship to senior managers and supervisors, ensuring a high level of operational excellence
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, motivating staff to adopt best practices and new technologies
- Oversee workforce development, including recruitment, training, and retention of skilled labor, particularly in specialized areas like electrical engineering and manufacturing technologies
Budgeting and Financial Management:
- Develop and manage the manufacturing budget, ensuring cost control, optimal resource allocation, and capital expenditure planning
- Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying areas for cost reduction or process improvement
- Implement cost-effective strategies without compromising product quality or safety
Supply Chain and Vendor Management:
- Ensure a steady supply of raw materials and components (e.g., copper, insulation materials, transformers) needed for production
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, negotiating pricing, delivery schedules, and service agreements to ensure consistent production capabilities
- Manage inventory levels to balance production needs with cost control, avoiding stockouts or excessive inventory
Health, Safety, and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations during all manufacturing operations
- Maintain a safe working environment, overseeing risk assessments and compliance with industry standards (e.g., OSHA, IEC)
- Ensure that products meet electrical safety standards and are compliant with international regulations, including those set by entities like UL, IEC, and IEEE
Customer Relations and Service:
- Work closely with sales and customer service teams to understand customer needs and ensure the manufacturing process aligns with customer specifications
- Develop custom manufacturing solutions for high-profile or unique customer requirements, especially in industries like energy, utilities, or high-tech infrastructure
- Ensure timely delivery of products to customers, managing any supply chain or production-related issues that could affect deadlines
Innovation and Technology Integration:
- Spearhead the adoption of new technologies, such as automation, IoT-enabled manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 solutions, to enhance manufacturing capabilities
- Stay updated on emerging trends in high voltage technology (e.g., high-voltage direct current (HVDC), switchgear, transformers) and integrate relevant advancements into production practices
Risk Management and Crisis Response:
- Identify and mitigate risks related to the manufacturing process, including equipment failures, supply chain disruptions, and safety incidents
- Develop contingency plans and lead efforts in crisis situations, ensuring minimal disruption to production and customer satisfaction