Managing Director

Job Title: Managing Director, SD-WAN Devices Manufacturing for our strategic partner

The Managing Director will hold full P&L accountability for the SD-WAN Devices Manufacturing Unit. This executive will be responsible for defining and executing the unit's operational strategy, ensuring world-class efficiency, quality, and security in the production of all SD-WAN and related networking hardware. The MD will drive innovation in manufacturing processes, lead a high-performing team, and collaborate closely with R&D, Supply Chain, and Global Sales to meet market demand and financial targets.

Experience - 15 yrs plus relevant experience

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & P&L Management

• Own and manage the entire
  P&L
  for the manufacturing unit, including budget development, cost control, and revenue forecasting.
• Develop and implement a multi-year
  manufacturing strategy
  that aligns with the company's overall business goals for growth and market leadership in SD-WAN technology.
• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to maximize operational efficiency, reduce 'time-to-market' for new products, and optimize CAPEX utilization.

2. Operational Excellence & Production

• Oversee all aspects of the SD-WAN device lifecycle, from
  NPI (New Product Introduction)
  transfer to mass production, end-of-life planning, and reverse logistics.
• Ensure rigorous compliance with international
  quality standards
  (e.g., ISO 9001) and regulatory requirements relevant to networking and electronic devices.
• Implement and maintain robust
  manufacturing execution systems (MES)
  and smart factory principles (Industry 4.0) to enhance visibility and control over the production floor.
• Guarantee adequate
  inventory levels
  and efficient production scheduling to satisfy global sales forecasts while minimizing carrying costs.

3. Supply Chain & Vendor Management

• Work in partnership with the Global Supply Chain team to secure and qualify critical components (e.g., specialized ASICs, processors, secure elements) required for SD-WAN devices.
• Negotiate and manage high-value contracts with
  OEM/ODM partners
  and component suppliers, ensuring resilience, cost-effectiveness, and quality.
• Develop strategies to mitigate risks related to geopolitical instability and component shortages that could impact production timelines.

4. Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team encompassing Production Engineering, Quality Assurance, Facilities Management, and Operations staff.
• Foster a culture of
  safety, accountability, and continuous learning
  within the manufacturing environment.
• Identify talent gaps and develop a succession plan for key leadership roles within the unit.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as the primary liaison between Manufacturing and the
  R&D/Engineering
  teams to ensure design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and smooth product transitions.
• Partner with
  Global Sales & Marketing
  to understand market dynamics, product roadmaps, and forecast changes to adjust production capacity proactively.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education:
  Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Industrial, or Mechanical), Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA is highly preferred.
• Experience:
  Minimum of
  15+ years
  of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least
  5 years
  in a senior executive/Managing Director role with P&L responsibility.
• Domain Expertise:
  Deep, verifiable experience in manufacturing
  complex electronic hardware
  , specifically networking devices, telecom equipment, or high-reliability industrial controls.
• Technical Knowledge:
  Strong understanding of SD-WAN or core networking technologies, including hardware specifications, security features, and platform requirements.
• Skills:
  Proven ability to implement modern manufacturing philosophies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and utilize ERP/MES systems effectively.

Preferred:

• Experience establishing or scaling manufacturing operations in global markets.
• Certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma Black Belt, or equivalent.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Execution
• Financial Acumen & P&L Management
• Global Supply Chain Mastery
• Decision Making Under Pressure
• Inspirational Leadership & Team Building

Confident relevant candidates willing to relocate and focus on a specialised career, may apply