Director, Special Projects
About The Position
Lead strategic initiatives that support business growth across North America and Mexico. Partner with cross-functional teams in Japan, the United States, and Mexico to drive business planning, project execution, operational excellence, and organizational development. This role is responsible for managing key projects, fostering global collaboration, identifying process improvements, and implementing solutions that enhance business performance and support long-term organizational objectives. Position based in Plymouth, Michigan, with responsibility for supporting projects requiring extended stays in the Baja California area.
Requirements
- Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills with the ability to influence cross-functional and multicultural teams.
- Ability to support product development initiatives and serve as a key liaison between the parent company and North American operations for new and existing business development opportunities.
- Strong financial acumen, including financial statement interpretation and analysis.
- Experience evaluating business profitability, capital investments, and strategic growth opportunities.
- Demonstrated experience leading plant start-ups, expansions, or significant operational growth initiatives.
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field required.
- Minimum of 10 years of senior management experience within the automotive components, electronics, electrical, machinery, or related manufacturing industries, preferably in Plant Manager, Operations Manager, General Manager, or similar leadership roles.
- Business-level proficiency in both Japanese and English, with the ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written formats.
- Proven ability to lead and facilitate discussions among teams located in Japan, the United States, and Mexico.
- Strong project management experience, including leading strategic and cross-functional initiatives.
- Experience supporting new product launches, production transfers, equipment implementation, and operational improvement projects.
- Ability and willingness to participate in evening meetings to support collaboration with teams in Japan.
Nice To Haves
- Previous international or overseas assignment experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead strategic projects supporting business growth and organizational objectives across North America and Mexico.
- Develop and execute initiatives that drive revenue growth, operational efficiency, and market expansion.
- Lead cross-functional, multicultural teams to achieve project milestones and business goals.
- Identify and implement operational improvement opportunities within manufacturing facilities.
- Support investment planning, profitability analysis, budgeting, and long-term business planning activities.
- Collaborate with Japan headquarters and North American/Mexican operations to align business strategies and priorities.
- Prepare executive-level reports, presentations, and business recommendations for senior leadership.
- Analyze business performance metrics and provide insights to support decision-making.
- Improve business processes, management systems, and organizational effectiveness.
- Coordinate and monitor project activities to ensure timely completion and successful outcomes.
- Facilitate communication and collaboration among internal stakeholders across multiple regions and functions.
- Lead and execute special projects and strategic initiatives assigned by the President or Senior Vice President.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
