EMEA Operations Director

The Director of Operations for EMEA will develop and execute the manufacturing strategy to meet Axalta’s business requirements; drive process excellence in every step of the manufacturing process; implement improvements to reduce the cost of goods sold (COGS); and, direct Plant Management, including Quality, Engineering, and EH&S. This position is responsible for leading operations for the Mobility sites located in the EMEA region.

Essential Functions:

• Analyze local plant requirements and collaborate cross-functionally within operations (internal manufacturing, external manufacturing, supply chain, procurement) and with other functions (businesses, R&D, HR, Finance, Legal). Leverage industry best practices and financial analysis to recommend solutions that enhance performance and profitability. Translate regional and global strategies into local execution, ensuring efficient product and supply chain flow from supplier to customer, and providing top-tier service. Consider latest technological developments, EH&S standards, and team development.
• Be a high-energy self-starter with a strong work ethic, excelling in both tactical execution and strategic planning. Motivated by industry competitiveness, customer requirements, and profitability. Possess excellent communication and leadership skills, with extensive experience across manufacturing functions.
• Additional responsibilities include:
• Oversee all plant operations and facilities for Liquid sites within EMEA.
• Align global production capabilities with business objectives, fostering innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Develop and implement a global manufacturing strategy aligned with corporate goals, market trends, and customer demands.
• Assess current capabilities and identify opportunities for optimization, capacity expansion, and technological innovation.
• Lead strategic initiatives such as footprint rationalization, site selection, and capacity planning.
• Manage a team including 4 Plant Managers, one Site Director, and over 1000 indirect workers.
• Hold full accountability for production, warehousing, and maintenance at an integrated coatings facility.
• Assess risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across sites.
• Develop and execute a 5-year manufacturing strategy to boost competitiveness.
• Implement succession planning and mentorship programs.
• Act as a change agent, collaborating with diverse teams to improve efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
• Utilize LEAN and continuous improvement tools to optimize processes.
• Provide leadership to Manufacturing, Quality, EH&S, and Engineering, building capabilities in these areas.
• Evaluate investment opportunities in new technologies, capacity, and modernization.
• Be data-driven, yet able to implement solutions with appropriate urgency.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Participate actively in EMEA Leadership Teams to drive strategy and business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, or related field.
• Master’s degree (MBA or related) recommended.
• Minimum 15 years manufacturing experience, including leadership of managers, preferably in the chemicals or coatings industry.
• Experience managing Process Safety Management (PSM).
• Strong chemical batch processing knowledge in a lean, high-customization environment, with experience in lean manufacturing, kaizen, and production systems.

Highly Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of non-union and union site operations.
• Strong financial and analytical skills to maximize productivity and profitability.
• Experience managing large capital projects.
• Excellent communication and influence skills for change management and leadership of initiatives.
• Ability to gather and report business data and KPIs effectively.
• Creative and innovative risk-taking ability.
• Adaptability to demanding, fast-paced environments.
• Proficiency in operating within a matrixed organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Fluency in English and Deutsch.
• Willingness to travel 30-40%.

About Axalta:

Axalta leads the coatings industry with innovative solutions that protect and beautify products worldwide. Our portfolio supports infrastructure modernization and the next generation of electric and autonomous vehicles. Operating in segments such as Performance and Mobility Coatings, we serve over 140 countries, coating 30 million vehicles annually. Committed to sustainability, we aim for carbon neutrality by 2040 and pursue numerous initiatives to support our customers\‘ success and environmental responsibility.

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