Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Production Facility Manager

Short Description

In collaboration with our client, we are searching for a highly capable and motivated professional to join their newly established production site in Serbia in the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Production Facility Manager.This is a key leadership opportunity within a growing cable and cable harness manufacturing company, responsible for building, managing, and scaling the full operational setup of the new facility. The role requires a strong hands-on leader who can oversee daily manufacturing activities, ensure outstanding product quality for international customers, and develop a high-performing team of approximately 40 employees. The selected candidate will hold full strategic and operational responsibility, including P&L management, business development support, and execution of production excellence within a dynamic industrial environment.

Description

A. Chief Executive Officer (Strategic Leadership)

• Strategic Planning: Define, communicate, and execute the company's long-term business strategy, focusing on market growth, profitability, and operational efficiency within the specialized cable and harness industry.
• Financial Oversight: Full accountability for the facility’s P&L, budgeting, cost control, and financial performance reporting to the parent company.
• Compliance & Risk: Ensure the facility operates in full compliance with all local, national, and international industry standards (e.g., ISO certifications, automotive standards, export/import regulations).
• People & Culture: Develop a positive, safety-focused, and high-performance culture across all departments, including leading the strategic selection and recruitment of key future employees.

• Operations Management: Oversee all manufacturing processes, including raw material procurement, inventory control, wire cutting, assembly, crimping, testing, and final quality assurance (QA).
• Process Optimization: Implement and uphold Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to continuously improve efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize production lead times.
• Quality Control: Maintain stringent quality standards (zero-defect philosophy) required by international customers, ensuring all products meet precise specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Team Leadership & Development: Directly manage and mentor a team of approximately 40 employees, including production supervisors, engineers, and assembly staff. Conduct performance reviews and manage staffing levels.
• Maintenance & Safety: Ensure the reliable operation and scheduled maintenance of all production equipment and enforce strict occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols

Requirements

• Industry & Functional Experience: Minimum 8+ years of progressive experience in the Manufacturing Industry, with significant time spent in a management role (e.g., Operations Manager, Plant Manager, or General Manager).
•  Proven track record of at least 3 years in the Cable, Wiring Harness, or Electromechanical Assembly sector.
•  Demonstrable experience in managing manufacturing operations that serve international customers (e.g., EU, US markets).
• Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage a team of at least 40 personnel, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.
•  Strong financial acumen and previous accountability for managing a Profit & Loss (P&L) statement and operational budgets.
• Technical Acumen: Deep knowledge of modern manufacturing methodologies (e.g., Lean, Kaizen, 5S) and QA systems relevant to the industry.
•  Demonstrated ability to manage complex supply chains and logistics processes.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial) or Business Management is strongly preferred.
• English: Very good command (C1 level or equivalent); full professional proficiency required.
• German: Professional working proficiency (B2/C1) is an advantage, but not a requirement for the role