Managing Director

Job Title: Managing Director, SD-WAN Devices Manufacturing for our strategic partner

The Managing Director will hold full P&L accountability for the SD-WAN Devices Manufacturing Unit. This executive will be responsible for defining and executing the unit's operational strategy, ensuring world-class efficiency, quality, and security in the production of all SD-WAN and related networking hardware. The MD will drive innovation in manufacturing processes, lead a high-performing team, and collaborate closely with R&D, Supply Chain, and Global Sales to meet market demand and financial targets.

Experience - 15 yrs plus relevant experience

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & P&L Management

• Own and manage the entire P&L for the manufacturing unit, including budget development, cost control, and revenue forecasting.
• Develop and implement a multi-year manufacturing strategy that aligns with the company's overall business goals for growth and market leadership in SD-WAN technology.
• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to maximize operational efficiency, reduce 'time-to-market' for new products, and optimize CAPEX utilization.

2. Operational Excellence & Production

• Oversee all aspects of the SD-WAN device lifecycle, from NPI (New Product Introduction) transfer to mass production, end-of-life planning, and reverse logistics.
• Ensure rigorous compliance with international quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001) and regulatory requirements relevant to networking and electronic devices.
• Implement and maintain robust manufacturing execution systems (MES) and smart factory principles (Industry 4.0) to enhance visibility and control over the production floor.
• Guarantee adequate inventory levels and efficient production scheduling to satisfy global sales forecasts while minimizing carrying costs.

3. Supply Chain & Vendor Management

• Work in partnership with the Global Supply Chain team to secure and qualify critical components (e.g., specialized ASICs, processors, secure elements) required for SD-WAN devices.
• Negotiate and manage high-value contracts with OEM/ODM partners and component suppliers, ensuring resilience, cost-effectiveness, and quality.
• Develop strategies to mitigate risks related to geopolitical instability and component shortages that could impact production timelines.

4. Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team encompassing Production Engineering, Quality Assurance, Facilities Management, and Operations staff.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous learning within the manufacturing environment.
• Identify talent gaps and develop a succession plan for key leadership roles within the unit.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as the primary liaison between Manufacturing and the R&D/Engineering teams to ensure design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and smooth product transitions.
• Partner with Global Sales & Marketing to understand market dynamics, product roadmaps, and forecast changes to adjust production capacity proactively.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Industrial, or Mechanical), Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA is highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5 years in a senior executive/Managing Director role with P&L responsibility.
• Domain Expertise: Deep, verifiable experience in manufacturing complex electronic hardware , specifically networking devices, telecom equipment, or high-reliability industrial controls.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of SD-WAN or core networking technologies, including hardware specifications, security features, and platform requirements.
• Skills: Proven ability to implement modern manufacturing philosophies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and utilize ERP/MES systems effectively.

Preferred:

• Experience establishing or scaling manufacturing operations in global markets.
• Certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma Black Belt, or equivalent.