Production Manager - MDT Chassis Assembly

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead and manage MDT Chassis Assembly operations at our Oragadam plant. The role is responsible for achieving SQDCM targets, driving operational excellence, managing unionized workforce, and fostering a high-performance culture on the chassis assembly conveyor line.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Performance

• Lead and manage MDT chassis assembly conveyor line operations end to end
• Achieve daily, weekly, and monthly SQDCM Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Morale targets
• Drive productivity and maintain operational excellence on chassis assembly line
• Monitor and improve OEE, FTT, and overall line efficiency
• Ensure vehicle roll out with targeted First Time Through (FTT) quality

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Drive quality improvement activities and reduce rejection and rework levels
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Implement Lean, Kaizen, TPM, and DWM initiatives on shop floor
• Lead continuous improvement and cost reduction projects

Workforce Leadership & Industrial Relations

• Lead, mentor, and develop Engineers, Team Leaders, and Associates
• Manage unionized workforce effectively and maintain harmonious industrial relations
• Manage operators, supervisors, and contract manpower deployment
• Ensure skill matrix coverage and succession planning for the team

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to Safety, EHS, and PPE compliance standards
• Drive zero accident culture on chassis assembly shop floor
• Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Coordinate with Quality, Maintenance, PPC, Logistics, and HR teams
• Ensure smooth communication and issue resolution across functions
• Support new model launches and model change activities on chassis line

Systems & Reporting

• Work with Manufacturing Execution Systems — SAP or MES
• Monitor plan vs actual and take corrective actions
• Prepare and present production performance reports to senior management

Knowledge & Skills Required

• Strong hands-on experience in MDT chassis assembly or commercial vehicle assembly
• Strong knowledge of SQDCM metrics and conveyor line operations
• Experience in Lean Manufacturing, TPM, DWM, and Kaizen implementation
• OEE and FTT monitoring and improvement experience
• Experience managing unionized workforce and industrial relations
• Manpower planning and contract workforce management
• Familiarity with Safety, EHS, and PPE compliance standards
• Proficiency in SAP or MES systems

Other Abilities

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Data-driven decision-making approach
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Ability to manage industrial relations
• Problem-solving and analytical mindset
• Flexible and open to new ideas and technologies