Manufacturing Operations Manager

With a successful launch of multiple smartphones in India – HMD Global is planning to expand its team and we are seeking an experienced and visionary leader for our Head of Manufacturing role, to lead our quality assurance and control efforts for mobile device manufacturing. This role is responsible for developing and executing a global manufacturing strategy, ensuring regulatory adherence, maintaining a robust Quality Management System (QMS), and driving continuous improvement across the entire product lifecycle, from supplier validation to post-launch customer satisfaction. Responsibilities: 1. Quality Strategy and Leadership Develop, implement, and champion a Quality Strategy aligned with the company's business goals for mobile device production. Lead, mentor, and manage the Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) teams. Foster a proactive culture of quality and continuous improvement throughout the organization. 2. Quality Management Systems (QMS) & Compliance Establish, maintain, and audit a robust QMS compliant with international standards, including ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 . Ensure rigorous compliance with global regulatory requirements for mobile devices, including BIS, CE, RoHS, REACH , and FSC (for packaging). Manage necessary certifications and lead audits by regulatory bodies and third-party organizations. Ensure proper documentation of all quality processes (SOPs, work instructions, quality manuals). 3. Supplier and Vendor Quality Management Establish quality standards and conduct regular Onsite Audits of vendors covering QMS, Operations, Supply Chain, Reliability, and CSER (Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility). Based on audit findings, assign a risk rating and integrate results into the overall vendor performance scorecard. Manage quality standards for supplied components (e.g., Battery, Charger, Injection Moulding) and resolve quality issues related to supplied materials. 4. Product and Process Quality Oversee product quality throughout the lifecycle, ensuring all components (displays, cameras, batteries, etc.) meet stringent specifications. Monitor and improve quality control processes on the production line, implementing tools like Statistical Process Control (SPC) to minimize defects and ensure consistency. Oversee comprehensive Testing and Validation plans, including Ongoing Reliability Tests (ORT) (Drop, temperature, vibration) and performance testing (battery life, network connectivity). 5. Continuous Improvement and Root Cause Analysis Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for quality issues, hardware failures, software bugs, and customer complaints. Implement effective Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to address recurring problems. Utilize advanced quality tools such as 8D problem-solving, FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis), and 5 Whys . 6. Performance & Customer Focus Define and track key quality metrics, including defect rates, First-Pass Yield (FPY) , and return rates. Prepare detailed quality reports for senior management, highlighting trends, issues, and improvement initiatives. Monitor customer feedback and warranty claims, collaborating with support teams to ensure that customer satisfaction is a primary driver for quality improvements. Qualifications and Experience: Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial), Quality Management, or a related technical field. Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing and Quality Management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the mobile device, consumer electronics, or high-volume manufacturing industry. Technical Skills: Deep expertise in QMS standards (ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 ). Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of global mobile device regulations (BIS, CE, RoHS, REACH ). Tools: Proven expertise in modern quality methodologies (8D, FMEA, CAPA, SPC, RCA ). Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and manage large, cross-functional quality teams and influence organizational change.