Job Title: APU Manager (Autonomous Production Unit)

Location: Birkirkara, Malta

Work Model: Full-time & On-site

Employment Type: Direct hire

We're supporting the growth of a global manufacturing organisation operating in the automotive industry, recognised for delivering innovative, high-quality solutions to customers worldwide.

The company combines engineering excellence with lean manufacturing principles, creating an environment where operational performance, continuous improvement and people development go hand in hand.

This is an opportunity to join a business that empowers its leaders to take ownership, drive operational excellence and make a tangible impact on plant performance.

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced APU Manager to lead an Autonomous Production Unit (APU) and ensure the achievement of operational, financial and people objectives.

This role combines strategic leadership with operational oversight. You'll be responsible for translating plant objectives into daily execution, leading multiple production teams, developing supervisors, and driving continuous improvement across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and People.

The ideal candidate is an experienced manufacturing leader who enjoys building high-performing teams, solving complex operational challenges and creating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

Lead the overall performance of the Autonomous Production Unit across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and People.
Translate plant strategy into clear operational objectives, action plans and performance routines.
Monitor, analyse and improve KPIs through structured performance reviews and data-driven decision making.
Ensure operational stability through effective production planning, capacity management and adherence to manufacturing standards.
Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives, including Kaizen activities, PDCA cycles and waste reduction programmes.
Manage the APU budget, controlling labour costs, overtime, scrap, maintenance expenditure and operational efficiency.
Identify and implement productivity and cost optimisation initiatives.
Lead, coach and develop Production Supervisors, supporting succession planning and capability development.
Foster a strong culture of safety, quality, engagement and operational discipline.
Collaborate closely with Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, Logistics and other cross-functional teams to resolve complex operational challenges.
Ensure compliance with production standards, standard work, internal policies and quality requirements.
Support investment decisions related to equipment, tooling, process improvements and employee development.

Requirements

Proven experience in a Production Manager, APU Manager, Manufacturing Manager or similar leadership role within a manufacturing environment.
Previous experience in the automotive industry is highly valued.
Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement and operational excellence methodologies.
Experience managing production KPIs, budgets and manufacturing performance.
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop managers, supervisors and cross-functional teams.
Strong understanding of production planning, capacity management and manufacturing processes.
Experience driving Kaizen, PDCA and cost reduction initiatives.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Fluent English is required; additional languages are considered an advantage.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Manufacturing or a related field is preferred.

Hiring Process

Our hiring process is designed to ensure the right long-term fit for both the candidate and the organisation.

Initial Conversation: An introductory discussion to understand your background, leadership experience and career aspirations.
Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper conversation focused on operational leadership, manufacturing experience and technical alignment.
Role-Specific Assessment (if applicable): Depending on the role, this stage may include leadership discussions, technical assessments, case studies or other relevant evaluation methods.
Final Interview: A final conversation to ensure mutual alignment regarding expectations, culture and long-term success.

Autonomous Production Unit Manager

Job Description