General Manager - Tier 1 Automotive Manufacturing

Overview

Our client, a reputable Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking an accomplished General Manager to oversee their manufacturing plant situated in Riverside, Missouri within the Kansas City metropolitan area. This leadership role is part of a confidential executive search aimed at selecting a dynamic individual with proven operational and financial leadership skills to drive plant performance and growth.

Operations and Manufacturing

The facility specializes in precision metal component manufacturing utilizing advanced techniques such as laser cutting, metal bending and forming, manual and robotic welding, fabrication, and assembly. The plant supports major North American manufacturers including General Motors, John Deere, and Volvo Trucks.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all facets of plant operations including performance, profitability, and strategic development.
• Establish and drive a long-term vision fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Build and mentor a high-performing leadership team within manufacturing functions such as production, engineering, maintenance, quality, supply chain, logistics, and continuous improvement.
• Maintain full ownership of plant P&L, managing budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning.
• Monitor key metrics including labor costs, manufacturing costs, inventory, maintenance, scrap rates, productivity, and operating expenses.
• Implement initiatives to enhance profitability and sustainable growth.
• Build executive-level relationships with customers, participate in program launches and strategic reviews, and ensure outstanding performance in quality and customer service.
• Drive Lean manufacturing principles and Operational Excellence to improve efficiency, productivity, safety, and on-time delivery.

Leadership and People Development

A central focus of the role is nurturing talent and developing future leaders by providing coaching, mentorship, and succession planning in partnership with Human Resources.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in manufacturing roles such as General Manager, Plant Manager, Director or Vice President of Operations, or Assistant General Manager.
• Mandatory experience in Tier 1 automotive manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in P&L management, budgeting, strategic business and capital planning.
• Strong skills in Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, operational KPIs, customer relationship management, and change management.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities, with a commitment to team development and mentorship.

Preferred Background

• Experience in automotive metal stamping, welding, laser processing, fabrication, structural or chassis components, heavy manufacturing, or metal forming is highly desirable.

Education

A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field is preferred. An MBA is considered a plus.

Additional Information

• Relocation assistance is available for suitable candidates.
• This is a full-time, on-site executive leadership position.
• The role offers significant visibility and influence, with strong executive support and opportunities for long-term career advancement.