Head of Smart Manufacturing

Jobstreet Malaysia; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company based in Kuala Lumpur is seeking a strategic leader to drive digital transformation through Industry 4.0 initiatives. The role emphasizes the execution of Smart Manufacturing strategies, implementation of automation technologies, and the oversight of manufacturing systems for real-time operations. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Engineering with over 10 years of manufacturing experience, including a minimum of 5 years in leadership roles. Excellent strategic thinking and communication skills are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing operations.
• At least 5 years in a leadership role driving digital transformation.
• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Group’s Smart Manufacturing roadmap.
• Drive implementation of Industry 4.0 initiatives.
• Oversee the integration of manufacturing systems.
• Champion lean manufacturing practices across sites.
• Build and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Data analytics

Automation

Change management

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field

Master’s Degree preferred

Job description

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the Group’s Smart Manufacturing roadmap and transformation strategy.
• Drive implementation of Industry 4.0 initiatives, including automation, IoT, robotics, AI, and data analytics.
• Lead continuous improvement programs to enhance operational efficiency, reduce cost, and improve product quality.
• Identify emerging technologies and evaluate their potential impact on production operations.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the integration of manufacturing systems (MES, ERP, SCADA, etc.) to enable real‑time monitoring and decision‑making.
• Champion lean manufacturing and Six Sigma practices across all production sites.
• Establish performance metrics (KPIs) and dashboards to monitor production performance and digital maturity progress.
• Ensure optimal use of resources, process standardisation, and scalability across plants.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with IT, Engineering, R&D, and Production teams to align technology initiatives with business goals.
• Partner with vendors, consultants, and government agencies for technology grants, collaborations, and training opportunities.
• Provide leadership and guidance to plant managers, engineers, and project teams involved in digital transformation.

People and Change Management

• Build and develop a high‑performing team with capabilities in data analytics, automation, and process optimisation.
• Promote a culture of innovation and digital mindset within the manufacturing division.
• Manage change effectively through communication, training, and stakeholder engagement.

Compliance and Sustainability

• Ensure all digitalisation initiatives comply with safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Drive sustainability through energy‑efficient technologies and waste reduction initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Automation, or related field. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing operations with at least 5 years in a leadership role driving digital transformation or automation.
• Proven experience in implementing Industry 4.0 technologies such as IoT, robotics, data analytics, and AI‑based process optimisation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage large‑scale change initiatives.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and communication skills.