Production Manager

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Manager - Production to lead our production operations at our Pilkhuwa facility. This is a pivotal role requiring 10+ years of demonstrated expertise in aerospace and defence manufacturing. The ideal candidate will be a champion of production excellence and continuous improvement, with a proven track record of optimizing manufacturing processes, reducing waste, and delivering superior quality while maintaining operational efficiency. As Manager - Production, you will oversee all aspects of production planning, execution, and control, ensuring that our manufacturing operations meet stringent aerospace and defence industry standards while driving sustainable cost reductions and process improvements. Key Responsibilities Production Planning & Execution Plan, develop, and execute comprehensive production schedules aligned with customer demand and organizational objectives Coordinate production activities across all departments to ensure timely delivery of components and finished products Manage production resources, including equipment, facilities, materials, and manpower allocation Establish and enforce standard work instructions, procedures, and protocols across production floor Ensure all production activities comply with aerospace and defence regulatory requirements and quality standards Production Excellence & Quality Management Establish, monitor, and enforce quality control standards at every stage of the manufacturing process Lead implementation of quality assurance processes to ensure zero-defect manufacturing culture Conduct regular quality audits and coordinate corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address non-conformances Maintain comprehensive quality documentation and traceability as per AS9100 and other relevant certifications Collaborate closely with Quality Assurance teams to optimize product quality and customer satisfaction Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization Champion a culture of continuous improvement across the production department, fostering innovation and excellence Identify, analyze, and eliminate non-value-added activities, bottlenecks, and waste using Lean Manufacturing principles Implement and oversee Lean methodologies (5S, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, etc.) to enhance operational efficiency Drive Six Sigma and process improvement initiatives to reduce defects, cycle times, and manufacturing costs Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure production efficiency, quality, and safety performance Conduct root cause analysis of production issues and implement sustainable solutions Lead regular process reviews and improvement workshops with cross-functional teams Cost Management & Budget Control Develop, manage, and monitor production budgets and cost controls Identify cost reduction opportunities and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency without compromising quality Monitor manufacturing expenses, overtime, and resource utilization to optimize cost performance Negotiate with suppliers and vendors to ensure material availability and competitive pricing Implement cost-effective solutions while maintaining highest quality standards Team Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, engineers, and operational staff Establish clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback for continuous employee development Conduct training programs in safety, quality, continuous improvement methodologies, and technical skills Foster a high-performance culture emphasizing safety, quality, accountability, and professional growth Address performance issues and maintain discipline while promoting employee engagement and morale Ensure adequate staffing levels and capacity planning based on production demand Safety & Compliance Ensure strict adherence to occupational health and safety (OH&S) regulations and company safety policies Implement and monitor safety protocols, including machinery safeguards, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe work practices Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and safety drills to maintain a zero-accident workplace Investigate and report workplace incidents, accidents, and near-misses with corrective action plans Maintain compliance with DGMS, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and aerospace-specific safety requirements Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Engineering, Design, and Quality teams to ensure manufacturability and process optimization Collaborate with Supply Chain and Procurement for timely material availability and vendor management Interface with customer representatives and manage customer requirements and expectations Work with HR and administration on workforce planning, recruitment, and organizational needs Communicate effectively with senior management on production performance, challenges, and strategic initiatives Performance Monitoring & Reporting Monitor and analyze production metrics including on-time delivery, quality rates, efficiency percentages, and safety records Prepare comprehensive production reports for management review and strategic decision-making Track progress against KPIs and continuously optimize processes to meet or exceed targets Maintain detailed production records, schedules, and documentation as per aerospace compliance requirements Key Competencies & Skills Technical Expertise 10+ years of progressive experience in production management, preferably in aerospace, defence, or related manufacturing sectors Deep understanding of aerospace and defence manufacturing processes, quality standards (AS9100, ISO 9001, etc.), and regulatory compliance Proficiency in production planning, scheduling, and resource management Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies Experience with production planning software, ERP systems, and MS Office (Excel, Project) Familiarity with CAD/CAM systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES) is advantageous Leadership & People Management Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams Strong supervisory and management skills with experience managing multiple teams and complex operations Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all organizational levels Coaching and mentoring orientation with focus on employee growth and capability building Ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with demonstrated ability to identify root causes Data-driven decision-making approach with comfort in analyzing production metrics and KPIs Creative thinking to identify process improvements and cost reduction opportunities Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage complex, dynamic production environments Operational Excellence Demonstrated track record of improving production efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing quality Commitment to operational excellence, zero-defect philosophy, and customer satisfaction Adaptability and resilience in fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environments Proactive approach to identifying and addressing operational challenges Project Management Capability to manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously Experience in implementing new processes, systems, or equipment Ability to plan, execute, and monitor improvement initiatives from conception to completion Required Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent discipline Diploma in Production/Manufacturing Management from recognized institution Post-graduate certification in operations or production management is a plus Experience Minimum 10+ years of demonstrated experience in production management or manufacturing operations Minimum 5+ years in a supervisory or managerial role with responsibility for production teams Preferred experience in aerospace, defence, automotive, or heavy manufacturing sectors Proven track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives and achieving measurable results Experience with AS9100 or other aerospace quality management systems Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement methodologies Technical Competencies Proficiency in MS Excel, MS Project, and ERP software Knowledge of production planning systems and scheduling tools Working knowledge of quality management systems (QMS) and compliance documentation Certifications (Preferred) Certified in Lean Management or Six Sigma (Yellow Belt or above) ISO 9001 or AS9100 auditor certification Project Management Professional (PMP) certification Professional Attributes Integrity and ethical conduct with strong adherence to company values Detail-oriented with meticulous attention to accuracy and compliance Results-oriented with demonstrated ability to achieve and exceed targets Strong organizational and time management skills Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines Customer-centric mindset with focus on service excellence Collaborative spirit with openness to feedback and continuous learning Maturity and emotional intelligence in handling interpersonal challenges Salary & Benefits Salary Range: 15,00,000 to 16,00,000 per annum (subject to experience and expertise) Location: Pilkhuwa, Haryana, India Benefits Package: Comprehensive health insurance (self + family) Provident Fund (PF) and Gratuity Performance-based bonus/incentives Professional development and training opportunities Career advancement opportunities in aerospace and defence sector Friendly work environment in a growing organization Working Conditions Full-time position requiring 5-day work week (potential weekend/shift flexibility as operational needs dictate) On-site role at Pilkhuwa facility with occasional travel for supplier visits, customer meetings, or industry events Standard office and production floor responsibilities Potential on-call availability during critical production periods