Site Managing Director

Site Managing Director | Malaysia

We are partnering with a well-established European industrial technology group with a global manufacturing footprint and a strong reputation for precision-driven production in high-mix, low-volume environments. The Malaysian site is a strategically important operation within the group, employing around 200 people and playing a key role in delivering complex, quality-critical manufacturing output across international markets.

This is a pivotal senior leadership role with full accountability for site performance, organisational capability, and long-term development. Operating within a structured, centralised governance model, you will have the framework of a global organisation combined with real scope to drive local execution, performance, and continuous improvement.

Working closely with Group leadership, you will translate strategic priorities into effective operational delivery while building a strong, resilient, and high-performing organisation on the ground.

The Role

You will take full ownership of the site's operational and organisational performance across Production, Process Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Customer Service, with responsibility for:

• Leading end-to-end site operations and ensuring stable, efficient, and scalable performance
• Driving operational excellence through structured KPI management and continuous improvement
• Ensuring strong delivery performance, quality standards, and cost efficiency in a high-mix, low-volume environment
• Translating Group strategy into clear and effective local execution
• Managing operational performance including costs, margins, and working capital with strong governance and transparency
• Acting as statutory director with full responsibility for compliance, audit readiness, and governance standards
• Building, developing, and empowering a capable local leadership team
• Driving a performance-oriented, accountable, and engaged site culture
• Operating effectively within a matrix organisation aligned with Group functions (HR, Finance, IT)
• Contributing to the long-term scalability and strategic positioning of the site

Your Profile

We are looking for a senior manufacturing leader who brings:

• 15+ years of experience in manufacturing environments
• Proven leadership of sites with 150–300 FTE
• Strong background in operational excellence and performance management
• Experience within international group structures with centralised governance models
• Ability to operate effectively within matrix organisations and global stakeholder environments
• A leadership style combining structure, accountability, and team development
• Experience in EMS, cable assembly, or electromechanical manufacturing (strong advantage)
• Prior statutory director experience (preferred)
• Strong Asia exposure (essential for European expats)

Why This Role

• Full site ownership with significant operational and strategic impact
• Direct exposure to Group leadership and decision-making
• Opportunity to shape performance, organisation, and culture
• Structured international environment with clear governance and direction
• High-visibility role within a strategically important manufacturing site

We are seeking strong local talent, while also welcoming European expats with solid Asia experience who are ready to take on a hands-on, decisive leadership role with real impact on site performance and long-term capability building.

Interested or know someone suitable

Feel free to connect, comment, or reach out directly.