Head of Manufacturing

The Head of Manufacturing at Fourier is responsible for leading initiatives in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and New Product Introduction (NPI), ensuring seamless transitions from prototype to production. This role includes developing best practices for manufacturing processes, driving continuous improvement, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to mitigate any manufacturing risks. The position also involves budget management and the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies.

To qualify for the Head of Manufacturing role at Fourier, candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field, coupled with over eight years of experience in manufacturing leadership focused on DFM and NPI. Strong project management skills, a data-driven approach, and expertise in collaborating with cross-functional teams are also essential.

In addition to the basic qualifications, preferred skills for the Head of Manufacturing position at Fourier include a Master's degree in a relevant field, experience with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies, and familiarity with hydrogen production processes. Having direct experience with contract manufacturing teams located remotely is also an asset.

Fourier prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and operational excellence. As Head of Manufacturing, you will not only be leading a skilled team but also nurturing a culture that values creativity and teamwork in all aspects of manufacturing and product development.

Fourier offers a competitive salary and equity compensation for the Head of Manufacturing role, fully paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan, paid sick days, and vacation. The company emphasizes employee well-being and offers a vibrant and supportive work environment.

When answering this question, provide concrete examples of how you've successfully implemented DFM strategies. Discuss your role in optimizing product design for manufacturability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, and share metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work.

Detail your systematic approach to NPI, emphasizing collaboration with engineering, quality teams, and supply chain management. Showcase your ability to manage timelines, resources, and how you overcome challenges to ensure successful product launches while maintaining quality standards.

Discuss your methodology for identifying potential risks early in the product development cycle. Highlight your analytical skills and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams to devise mitigation plans that prevent manufacturing setbacks.

Provide specific examples of continuous improvement initiatives you've led, mentioning any frameworks like Lean or Six Sigma you employed. Discuss the outcomes in terms of efficiency gains, cost reductions, or quality enhancements achieved through these initiatives.

Share your strategies for selecting and managing contract manufacturing partners, particularly how you ensure smooth transitions from prototype production to volume manufacturing. Discuss any challenges faced and solutions employed during your experience in this area.

Explain your project management approach, including tools or methodologies you've used to prioritize tasks. Discuss your ability to assess project urgency and importance, and how you've achieved successful outcomes while managing several ongoing projects.

Discuss your experience with specific advanced manufacturing technologies that you have successfully implemented. Explain how these technologies improved productivity, flexibility, or cost-effectiveness, and the critical thinking involved in their evaluation.

Describe the methods you utilize to foster creativity and innovation within your team. Share any initiatives, incentives, or collaborative projects you've implemented that encouraged staff to bring forth new ideas and solutions in manufacturing.

Outline your approach to establishing and maintaining quality control standards in manufacturing processes. Discuss the importance of quality metrics, employee training, and feedback loops in achieving consistent quality outcomes.

Explain how you would ensure that the manufacturing operations align with Fourier's overall goals of sustainability and efficiency. Discuss strategies for collaboration across departments, defining clear objectives, and tracking success in achieving common goals.