Area Manager, Trim, Chassis, Final, Ford at BlueOval City

Ford • Stanton, TN

126d

About The Position

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we're all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves? Ford's legacy of innovation is about to reach new heights. Imagine being on the ground floor of something truly extraordinary. At BlueOval City, Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center, we're not just assembling vehicles, we're leading a transformation. As a key member of our start-up team, you'll have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to launch a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility from the ground up. Imagine: you, at the forefront of the electrification movement, helping to bring the next generation of vehicles to driveways, job sites and highways everywhere.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, a closely related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in high-volume vehicle manufacturing operations.
• 5+ years specifically in a leadership capacity overseeing production areas (e.g., Trim, Chassis, Final Assembly, or Testing).
• Demonstrated experience managing and developing teams of 50+ hourly and salaried personnel, including supervisors and team leads.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering key production metrics (e.g., safety, quality, cost, delivery) within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to manage complex operational challenges and navigate crisis situations effectively, maintaining production continuity and team morale.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to build high-performing teams, foster a collaborative work environment, and influence positive change.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience as a Team Manager or in a similar direct leadership role within manufacturing.
• Demonstrated ability for rapid and effective decision-making in a production environment.
• Proficiency in relevant manufacturing software systems and standard office applications.
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills, with experience utilizing manufacturing data systems to identify trends, resolve issues, and drive continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and implement lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) resulting in measurable improvements in efficiency or waste reduction.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively articulate strategic plans and operational performance to all levels of the organization, including executive leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing operations for Vehicle Assembly (Trim, Chassis, Final Assembly, Testing).
• Oversee greenfield plant facility installation, commissioning, and workforce development (hiring, training, organization).
• Manage Vehicle Launch Pre-Build events to meet quality and delivery targets.
• Drive continuous improvement and resource allocation for problem resolution.
• Coach and support teams in problem resolution and continuous improvement.
• Advance the organization through developing competent and motivated personnel.
• Ensure employee development through necessary training, coaching, and experience.
• Develop and provide feedback for salaried staff personal development.
• Implement effective Area communication and recognition processes.
• Build robust relationships with the Workforce Engagement Committee, aligning with company values.
• Implement Ford Production System operating systems to global standards.
• Remove internal barriers by securing resources and aligning objectives.
• Lead organizational transformation and change management.
• Ensure standards are in place and deliver results.
• Develop organizational capability through 'Leaders as Teachers' coaching and employee development.
• Cultivate a proactive, performance-driven culture through effective communication, education, and trust.
• Proactively recognize team accomplishments and improve morale.
• Complete essential administrative activities as required.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage.
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more.
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more.
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases.
• Tuition assistance.
• Established and active employee resource groups.
• Paid time off for individual and team community service.
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day.
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree