Werksleiter / Head of Hardware Operations (m/w/d)

About DESIGNA

Join DESIGNA as the Werksleiter / Head of Hardware Operations at our headquarters in Kiel, Germany. We are the global leader in fully automated parking systems, having installed over 17,000 systems worldwide. Our comprehensive product offering integrates software, hardware, and service components tailored to clients from New York airports to shopping centers in Kuala Lumpur and designer outlets in Neumünster.

Daily Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire supply chain of our parking management systems, focusing on delivery capability, quality, productivity, inventory, and organizational development.
• Lead, develop, and motivate teams across order management, purchasing, production, materials management, warehousing, and logistics.
• Manage production planning and material availability while continuously optimizing manufacturing and assembly processes using Lean Management principles.
• Ensure maintenance of delivery reliability, quality standards, cost efficiency, and productivity levels.
• Implement process and organizational improvements, applying Lean and Operational Excellence methodologies.
• Collaborate closely with development, sales, service, and finance departments.
• Develop, maintain, and utilize KPI systems; continuously analyze and improve key production metrics such as productivity, quality, delivery compliance, and throughput times.
• Work jointly with quality assurance to implement sustainable measures for error prevention and continuous improvement.
• Control inventory levels and manage working capital effectively.
• Handle budgetary responsibilities and investment decisions.

What We Offer

• Permanent employment contract with competitive compensation.
• Flexible working hours without fixed core times.
• Company car with the option for private usage.
• 30 days of annual leave.
• Regular exciting team and sports events, including eSports evenings, participation in Xletix, and the DESIGNA summer festival.
• Bike leasing options and employee discounts.

Candidate Profile

• Successfully completed technical degree or equivalent technical training with further qualifications (e.g., industrial foreman or technician).
• Several years of leadership experience in production or operations.
• Preferably experienced in change management and organizational development.
• Deep understanding of Lean Management and continuous improvement processes (KVP).
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Analytical, solution-focused mindset with a pronounced process-oriented approach.
• Hands-on attitude with entrepreneurial thinking and a cross-functional perspective.
• Fluency in German and English, both spoken and written.