Value Stream Manager

We are seeking a highly skilled Production Manager to lead and manage a large production team of 150 employees in our manufacturing facility. You are also a key member of the Belgian management team and report to the VP Manufacturing Europe. The ideal candidate will be an experienced leader with a proven track record in optimizing production processes, ensuring product quality, maintaining safety standards, and driving operational efficiency. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage a large team while meeting production targets.

You are leading our cigar making department in Westerlo (BE) and are the linking pin with your colleague in Lummen (BE) who is your internal customer.

Key Responsibilities:

• • Lead and manage a team of 150 employees across various shifts, fostering a collaborative, efficient, and positive work environment.
  • Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations to ensure continuous team development and alignment with company goals.
  • Ensure a safe working environment by enforcing safety protocols, conducting regular safety audits, and addressing any potential hazards.
  • Promote a culture of safety and ensure all employees are trained in safety procedures and best practices.

• • Monitor production quality, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure adherence to product specifications and standards.
  • Organize the workforce to meet production targets, adjusting resources as necessary to optimize capacity.

• • Continuously monitor and improve production processes, focusing on reducing downtime, minimizing waste, and enhancing efficiency.
  • Implement and maintain lean manufacturing practices and Six Sigma methodologies to drive process improvement and cost reduction.
  • Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as productivity, quality, and cost per unit.
  • Prepare and present regular production reports to senior management, highlighting achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement.

• • Act as a key member of the management team, contributing to strategic planning and decision-making.
  • Collaborate with other departments such as R&D, maintenance, HR, and finance to ensure alignment with overall business goals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Masters degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a production management role, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership experience managing large teams (100+ employees), with strong skills in team motivation, conflict resolution, and employee development.
• In-depth knowledge of production processes, lean manufacturing principles, and continuous improvement techniques.
• Experience in developing and implementing safety programs and ensuring workplace compliance with safety regulations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage complex production challenges.

Behavioral Skills:

• Leadership: Inspires confidence, trust, and respect from team members and peers. Acts as a role model for professionalism, integrity, and ethical behavior.
• Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Understands how to manage emotions and maintain positive relationships, even in challenging situations.
• Communication: Exhibits strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate ideas and influence others.
• Problem Solving: Approaches challenges with a calm and analytical mindset. Demonstrates resilience, perseverance, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
• Safety Consciousness: Displays a deep commitment to workplace safety, holding oneself and the team accountable for following established safety protocols.
• Team Orientation: Focused on building collaborative relationships and ensuring team alignment with organizational goals. Encourages open communication and teamwork.
• Adaptability: Thrives in dynamic environments, adjusting to changing priorities while maintaining high standards of performance.

Language Requirements:

• Dutch proficiency is required (both written and spoken)
• Fluency in English