Manager, Manufacturing - Malaysia

Working at Watlow

Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for over 100 years!

Manufacturing Manager

Location: Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kedah, Malaysia

Reports to: Director, Operations

About The Role

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Manufacturing Manager to lead our production operations at Kulim Hi-Tech Park. This role is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing activities, driving operational excellence, and ensuring safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are consistently achieved.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strong leadership, coaching, and direction to Production Team.
• Lead and manage overall manufacturing operations to meet production targets and business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize cost, reduce waste, and improve throughput.
• Oversee workforce planning, training, and development of production teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Maintenance) to ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions where needed.
• Leading in product line setup and supports New Product Introduction to ensure smooth and scalable production readiness.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to EHS standards.
• Lead problem-solving efforts for production issues and drive root cause analysis.
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Science or a related field.
• Minimum 8–12 years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, and industrial best practices.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proven leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven experience in a high-mix, high-volume electromechanical assembly manufacturing environment.
  
  

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for career growth within a dynamic organization.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
  
  

Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.