Job Title

Role PurposeThe Excellence Manager will drive operational excellence, cost competitiveness, and scalability in a fiber optic cable assembly contract manufacturing environment. The role focuses on automation implementation, localization of materials and processes, and industrial engineering practices to improve productivity, quality, delivery, and cost (PQDC).This position is a change‑agent role, working cross‑functionally to standardize processes, reduce waste, and build a high‑performance manufacturing system aligned with customer and business goals.1. Automation ExcellenceObjective: Improve productivity, consistency, and scalability through process automation and digitalization.ResponsibilitiesIdentify automation opportunities across fiber optic cable assembly processes (cutting, stripping, crimping, polishing, testing, labeling, packaging)Lead automation feasibility studies, ROI analysis, and business casesDrive implementation of semi‑automatic and fully automated equipmentCollaborate with Engineering, Maintenance, and Equipment Vendors for successful deploymentStandardize automated workstations and ensure operator trainingImplement digital tools for production monitoring, traceability, and data collectionSupport Industry 4.0 initiatives (MES, barcode/RFID, SPC, dashboards)KRAs / KPIs% productivity improvement through automationLabor cost reduction per unitAutomation ROI achievement vs planReduction in manual process variation and defectsAutomation project on‑time delivery2. Localization ExcellenceObjective: Reduce dependency on imports and improve cost, lead time, and supply chain resilience.ResponsibilitiesDrive localization of raw materials, connectors, cables, consumables, jigs, fixtures, and toolingIdentify and develop qualified local suppliers for fiber optic componentsWork with Quality and Engineering for supplier qualification and PPAP/FAI approvalsLead cost benchmarking and make‑vs‑buy analysisSupport value engineering and alternate material developmentEnsure localization aligns with customer specifications and telecom standardsKRAs / KPIs% localization achieved (value and volume)Cost savings through localization initiativesReduction in lead time and inventory exposureNumber of localized parts approved by customersSupplier quality and delivery performance3. Industrial Engineering ExcellenceObjective: Optimize manufacturing efficiency through scientific work measurement and layout optimization.ResponsibilitiesEstablish standard time (SAM) for all fiber optic assembly operationsConduct time & motion studies and line balancingOptimize plant layout, material flow, and workstation ergonomicsDrive capacity planning and manpower optimizationImplement standardized work, SOPs, and visual controlsImprove OEE, cycle time, and throughputSupport NPI line setup and ramp‑up efficiencyKRAs / KPIsProductivity (units per man‑hour)Line efficiency and OEE improvementCycle time reductionManpower optimization vs baselineStandard work adherence and audit scores4. Continuous Improvement & Lean ManufacturingObjective: Build a culture of continuous improvement and waste elimination.ResponsibilitiesLead Lean initiatives (5S, Kaizen, VSM, SMED, Poka‑Yoke)Facilitate Kaizen workshops and improvement projectsIdentify and eliminate non‑value‑added activitiesDrive root cause analysis using 8D, Fishbone, 5‑WhyTrack CI benefits and sustain gainsKRAs / KPIsNumber of Kaizens implementedAnnual cost savings from CI projects5S audit scoresWaste reduction (scrap, rework, downtime)5. Cross‑Functional Leadership & GovernanceObjective: Ensure alignment across functions for operational excellence goals.ResponsibilitiesWork closely with Production, Quality, Engineering, SCM, and FinanceSupport customer audits and operational reviewsPresent improvement roadmaps and progress to leadershipCoach teams on excellence tools and methodologiesBuild internal capability in IE, automation, and leanCross‑functional project success rateAudit outcomes and customer feedbackSkill development and training coverageRequired QualificationsEducationBachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, or Manufacturing EngineeringLean / Six Sigma certification preferred (Green Belt / Black Belt)Experience8–12 years of experience in manufacturing excellence / industrial engineeringStrong experience in contract manufacturing, electronics, cable assembly, or fiber optics preferredProven track record in automation and cost reduction initiativesSkills & CompetenciesStrong understanding of fiber optic assembly processes and testingExpertise in Industrial Engineering tools and Lean ManufacturingAutomation project management and ROI analysisSupplier localization and cost engineeringData‑driven decision making and analytical skillsLeadership, influence, and change managementProficiency in ERP/MES, Excel, Power BI (preferred)Behavioral AttributesResult‑oriented and hands‑on approachStrong problem‑solving mindsetAbility to influence without authorityStructured, disciplined, and execution‑focusedContinuous learner with innovation mindsetSuccess Metrics (Overall)Sustained productivity and cost improvementImproved competitiveness in customer RFQsReduced dependency on importsScalable and standardized manufacturing systemsStrong CI culture across the plant