Job Title: Production Manager (Machine Shop)
Position Title:  Zone Leader – Production Manager
Department: Production
Location: Chinchwad, Pune
Reports To: Head Production

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Zone Leader – Production Manager for the machine shop. This role is critical to lead production transformation in alignment with new strategic challenges:
- Introduction of new critical and high-value customers
- Deployment of new technology machines
- Enhanced dependency on outsourced components and cross-functional performance management

The ideal candidate will bring a strong mix of hands-on production and process knowledge, solid managerial abilities, and a drive to deliver superior customer experience. This position requires 12–20 years of experience, preferably from CNC/VMC/HMC/VTL operations in project-type and batch-type manufacturing environments, especially in oil & gas and engineering sectors. The Zone Leader must take full ownership of Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Improvement (QDCI) KPIs, and demonstrate the self-driven mindset and growth-oriented attitude expected at this leadership level.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
•    Drive zone-level production operations with high accountability for quality and timely delivery.
•    Manage CNC, VMC, HMC, VTL machines, ensuring maximum utilization and minimal downtime.
•    Implement and improve OEE (Overall Equipment Efficiency), productivity, and cost efficiency metrics.
•    Lead “First Time Right” execution and adherence to production standards.
•    Champion a customer-centric approach and drive changes aligned to expectations of high-value customers.
•    Oversee production setup for new machines and processes introduced under advanced technologies.
•    Manage cutting tools and fixtures to support efficient and uninterrupted production.
•    Control tooling costs within budgeted limits through proactive planning and monitoring.
•    Mentor and develop production teams, focusing on skill-building and performance mindset.
•    Enforce high standards in safety, discipline, work order compliance, and training.
•    Ensure all newly released work instructions are displayed on machines; old revisions removed.
•    Adhere to safety interlock usage on machines; no bypassing permitted.
•    Avoid unsafe component storage practices (e.g., no vertical stacking of heavy parts).
•    Ensure lifting magnet calibration and certifications are valid.
•    Strictly follow QAP frequencies and ensure documentation completeness.
•    Monitor machines for no coolant or oil leakages; corrective action to be immediate.
•    Ensure strict control on outsourced parts planning, receipt, inspection, and timely usage.
•    Maintain excellent housekeeping, 5S, and audit-readiness standards.
•    Coordinate with QC, engineering, planning, purchase, and outsourcing teams to drive aligned performance.
•    Actively engage in Kaizen initiatives and cost-saving projects

Objectives/Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
•    ≥ 90% Order Invoicing vs. Production Plan
•    100% “First Time Right” Quality
•    ≥ 75% OEE achievement and improvement
•    Zero Customer Complaints
•    Internal Rejection < 0.5%
•    Tool cost control within defined budgets
•    Execution of at least 2 Kaizens Per person per quarter per zone
•    Reduction in machine downtime and increased uptime
•    Adherence to QAP, 5S, and audit norms

Qualifications/Education, Skills, and Experience Required:
1.    Educational Qualification:
o    Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (DME) or Bachelor's in Engineering (BE) 
2.    Experience:
o    Minimum 12 to 20 years of hands-on experience in production management within a machine shop environment, particularly with CNC, VMC, HMC, and VTL machines.
o    Experience in oil & gas and engineering sectors is preferred.
3.    Skills & Expertise:
o    In-depth knowledge of machine shop operations, including CNC, VMC, HMC, and VTL machinery.
o    Strong understanding of OEE and experience in improving production efficiency.
o    Proficiency in cutting tool and fixture management, with the ability to optimize usage and control costs.
o    Ability to monitor and control tool costs in line with given budgets and targets.
o    Proficiency in MS Excel and PowerPoint for data analysis, reporting, and presentations.
o    Experience in Kaizen, Lean, TPM, and 5S implementation
o    Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on "First Time Right" quality.
o    Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, in English.
o    Proficiency in managing production schedules, resource planning, and team leadership

Personality Requirements:
•    Self-driven and ambitious, with a strong desire to grow
•    Customer first attitude with responsiveness to internal and external needs
•    Smart, proactive, and capable of leading a professional production team
•    Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence across teams
•    Ownership mindset with a focus on problem-solving
•    Reliable, ethical, and disciplined in all aspects of work