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