Head of Die Casting - Automotive Supplier (m/f/d)

Job Description: Head of Die Casting (m/f/d)
 
I support my client, an international premium automotive supplier, in their search for a Head of Die Casting (m/f/d). In this role, you would spend the first year getting to know the foundry and casting process in the company’s plants in Europe. Afterwards, you will spend 3-5 years in their new manufacturing site in the USA, heading the Die Casting unit, locally.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Technical Engineer. This role involves the setup and operation of new die-casting cells and managing all related processes, including melting, casting, and stamping within a light-metal foundry. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with a deep understanding of die-casting techniques and a strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the establishment and commissioning of new die-casting cells.
• Serve as the process owner for melting, casting, and stamping operations.
• Act as the primary point of contact for foundry team leaders.
• Develop and implement departmental goals, budgets, forecasts, and mid-term plans in alignment with executive management directives.
• Lead and manage employees within the department, ensuring efficient, high-quality production.
• Execute internal foundry projects and special tasks.
• Ensure compliance with standards to successfully pass audits.
• Monitor the implementation of improvement measures.
• Participate in handling customer complaints.
• Review and optimize all operational workflows for continuous improvement.
• Enforce safety regulations and ensure the use of personal protective equipment.
• Responsible for the training and development of employees.
• Plan annual training for direct reports and support team leaders in departmental planning.
• Plan personnel deployment.
• Collaborate with occupational health professionals, regulatory authorities, etc.
• Coordinate with all internal departments.
• Request and procure operational resources and personnel within the approved budget.
• Conduct employee evaluations and discipline measures in consultation with HR management.

Qualifications:

• Technical education (relevant certifications or degrees in mechanical engineering, metallurgy, or related fields).
• Strong expertise in die-casting and foundry technology (tools/machines).
• Knowledge of metallurgy and process engineering is a plus.
• Several years of professional experience in a foundry setting.
• Business management knowledge.
• Familiarity with quality assurance methods (e.g., FMEA, SPC).
• Project and process management skills.
• Leadership training and experience are preferred.
• Knowledge of TPM, KVP.
• Proficient in MS Office applications.
• Excellent command of English is mandatory.

Additional Requirements:

• High sense of responsibility, quality, and safety.
• Strong social and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proactive approach and readiness to engage in hands-on work.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Decisiveness and assertiveness.

We are looking for a technically strong candidate who can adapt to American culture, is willing to work on the shop floor, and is enthusiastic about building a new team. The role anticipates significant staff training due to expected personnel shortages. Ideal candidates will have experience in light metal casting and possess a comprehensive understanding of die-casting processes.