Senior Plant Manager

Chery Malaysia; Kulim; On-site; MYR 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the automotive sector is seeking a dynamic operations manager to oversee vehicle assembly and production planning. This role involves coordinating with various teams to ensure quality and efficiency in manufacturing processes, managing import/export operations, and leading a cross-functional team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in automotive manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate complex supply chain dynamics. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and operational excellence, and make a significant impact in the automotive industry.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years experience in automotive manufacturing or operations.
• Strong understanding of automotive assembly and quality management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of vehicle assembly and ensure quality standards.
• Develop production schedules aligned with sales forecasts and market demand.

Skills

Automotive Manufacturing

Import/Export Operations

Quality Management

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Cross-Functional Coordination

Fluent in English

Mandarin

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Bachelor's Degree in Logistics

Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain

Tools

ERP/MRP Systems (SAP, Oracle)

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

1. Contract Manufacturing Coordination (Inokom)

Oversee daily operations of Chery vehicle assembly at Inokom.

Ensure production output aligns with volume targets, quality standards, and model mix.

Approve and reconcile assembly fee invoices from Inokom based on verified output.

Support new model introduction activities, including line readiness, parts validation, and SOP execution at Inokom.

2. Import/Export Operations

Supervise a small team managing customs clearance and import documentation.

Coordinate with Priority Cargo (forwarding agent) for timely and compliant importation of components from China.

Resolve import/export issues quickly to avoid production delays.

3. Production Planning

Develop and maintain production schedules aligned with sales forecasts and market demand.

Coordinate closely with Inokom and the Sales team to adjust plans for new launches or volume changes.

Manage material requirements planning (MRP) and ensure component availability for smooth production.

4. Local & China Parts Procurement

Source and procure automotive parts from local and Chinese suppliers, ensuring cost, quality, and delivery standards.

Track supplier performance, handle claim processes for defective parts, and negotiate replacements or credit.

5. Inventory & Warehouse Management

Oversee rented warehouses, ensuring proper storage, stock accuracy, and inventory turnover.

Implement inventory control measures, including stock audits, FIFO practices, and part traceability.

Coordinate part deliveries from warehouse to Inokom in sync with production schedules.

6. Quality Assurance

Lead incoming parts inspection and final product quality monitoring.

Investigate and escalate quality issues from suppliers, initiating root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Work with suppliers and internal quality team to reduce defects and improve part reliability.

7. New Model Introduction (NMI)

Collaborate with Chery HQ and Inokom to introduce new models into production.

Support parts localization, new part validation, and pilot build activities.

Ensure production readiness and compliance with Chery standards before SOP.

8. Cross-Functional Collaboration

Interface with Chery Sales and Aftersales teams to align production with market demands and aftersales quality feedback.

Share quality trends and part failure analysis to inform warranty and service strategies.

9. People & Performance Management

Lead a small, cross-functional operations team (import/export, planning, procurement, inventory, quality).

Set performance goals, monitor progress, and mentor team members to develop their capabilities.

10. Reporting & Compliance

Generate operational reports covering production performance, supplier KPIs, inventory status, and claims.

Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, customs policies, safety, and Chery corporate standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field.

Minimum 8–10 years of experience in automotive manufacturing or operations.

Strong understanding of automotive assembly, import/export procedures, and quality management.

Experience managing 3PLs, warehouses, and supplier relationships.

Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional coordination skills.

Fluent in English; Mandarin is a plus for dealing with Chinese suppliers.

Familiar with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and Microsoft Office Suite.

Key Competencies:

Operational Excellence

Supply Chain Coordination

Quality & Continuous Improvement

Team Leadership

Cost Control & Budgeting

Strategic Planning

Stakeholder Management