Senior Manager, Manufacturing Systems, Intl

What makes this a great opportunity?

The Manufacturing Systems Senior Manager is responsible for overseeing the integration and long-term sustainability of new technologies, equipment, systems, and processes within our manufacturing environments across Europe and a site in India to drive global manufacturing digitalization. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams including engineering, operations, and IT, to ensure smooth and efficient implementation of automated systems, data analytics tools, digital systems and other advanced manufacturing solutions. The Manufacturing Systems Senior Manager plays a key role in delivering our digital transformation efforts through the detailed design, implementation, and ongoing support of new and existing manufacturing systems.  This role will report to the Director of Manufacturing Digitalization within the Global Manufacturing organization of Suntory Global Spirits.

Role Responsibilities

- Lead the integration strategy and execution of new manufacturing operational technologies, machinery, and software systems into production processes.
-Provide technical leadership for manufacturing operational technology like SCADA, MES, PLCs, HMIs, Automated Inspection Systems, and connected worker solutions.
- Provide technical expertise for operational technology and controls systems to resolve and prevent future integration issues working with local site teams.
- Collaborate with engineering, operations, IT, and other stakeholders to define and document system requirements and workflows.  This role will communicate regularly with many functions and levels in the organization to translate between business and technical expectations.
- Conduct thorough testing and validation of new systems to ensure compatibility, reliability, and efficiency in a production environment.
- Train and mentor production staff on the use of newly integrated systems and technologies.
- Develop global standards for industrial control systems, integration processes, system configurations, and technical competencies.
- Stay up to date with the latest trends in manufacturing technology, automation, and Industry 4.0 practices.
- Ensure global deployments comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards during design and implementation phases.
- Support continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities for automation, process optimization, digitalization, and technical competency development.

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, Industrial Electronics, or a related field.
-  Proven expertise in manufacturing systems, automation & control, or process integration, with a demonstrated track record of impactful contributions.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and automation technologies.
- Expertise in software and hardware integration, including with PLCs, SCADA systems, MES, automated inspection systems, and ERP solutions.
- Experience programming and mapping data tags in manufacturing systems for a variety of equipment and PLC types.
- Proficiency with IT/OT networks, advanced system architectures, and cybersecurity.
- Experience with data analytics tools and methodologies in a manufacturing setting.
- Willingness to engage and communicate with cross-functional teams in a way that fosters understanding and collaboration
- Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and corrective action.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks across multiple physical locations.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies to facilitate successful digitalization of manufacturing processes.
- Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies such as IoT, big data, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, AI, and machine learning in manufacturing.
- Candidates with professional working proficiency in English and Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply.

Work Environment:  
The Manufacturing Systems Senior Manager – International will typically work in a combination of office and manufacturing floor settings, with exposure to machinery and production equipment. This role may involve occasional travel to other production sites or vendor locations.