Business Operations Supervisor

Ford Motor • Dearborn, MI

3d • Hybrid

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? Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life. We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more! The supervisor is responsible for optimizing VHE's operational efficiency and strategic alignment by managing financial resources (including engineering budgets, expenses, and capital projects), alongside supporting workforce planning initiatives (such as model implementation, recruitment, and intern/co-op programs). They will advance strategic initiatives like Automation for Operational Excellence, Streamlining and Standardizing processes, and Optimizing Resource Allocation. The role ensures compliance through control testing, ISO, and objectives audits, while driving operational excellence by managing KPIs, facilitating business plan reviews, and identifying process improvements. Key duties also include coordinating high-level communications, managing surveys, maintaining critical operational dashboards and SharePoint sites, and providing chief-level operational support, all built upon a foundation of Robust Governance & Standard Operating Procedures and a Culture of Accountability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, Human Resources, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in an office management, business operations, or supervisory role, preferably within an engineering, manufacturing, or automotive environment.
• Proven experience in budget management, financial forecasting, and expense tracking.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and optimize workforce planning activities.
• Strong understanding of compliance requirements and experience with audit processes (e.g., ISO).
• Proficiency in data analysis, KPI reporting, and developing operational dashboards.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal), interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint).
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in a relevant field; MBA
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Familiarity with Ford's internal systems and processes (e.g., for budget, HR, or procurement).

Responsibilities

• Spend & Expense Management: Manage and forecast the Engineering Budget, including detailed oversight of personnel, purchasing services, materials, ED&T (Engineering, Design, and Test), and travel expenses. Monitor and control overtime, indirect budget allocations, and capital projects to ensure financial discipline and adherence to budgetary targets.
• Workforce Planning & Management: Provide Functional PADT (Product Attribute Definition Team) Input for the NGIE Model. Support Small Block Model, specifically managing Sub-Functional Splits. Coordinate backfill strategies, structure adjustments, and support the execution of recruiting strategies. Conduct Cycle Plan/Inventory Assessments and manage position allocations. Oversee the management of FCG (Ford College Graduate), Intern, and Co-Op programs.
• Legal & Compliance: Support control testing activities to ensure operational integrity and compliance with internal policies and external regulations. Facilitate and support ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Audits and Objectives Audits, ensuring all required documentation and processes are in place.
• Business Process & Operational Excellence: Lead the Objectives Setting and Cascade process, ensuring alignment with VHE and broader organizational goals. Manage, track, and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and drive accountability. Participate actively in Business Plan Reviews and maintain critical operational dashboards. Contribute to identifying and implementing process efficiencies and automation opportunities across VHE Business Operations.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Manage and coordinate communications for VP and Director levels Design, administer, and analyze surveys to gather feedback and inform strategic decisions. Support VP and Director MAR/SAR/TDR meeting management and All Hands events. Maintain and update the VHE and Director SharePoint site, ensuring all content is current, organized, and accessible. Provide Required Chief Level Operations Support, focusing on non-administrative tasks.

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: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees