Head of Foundry Operations, India

Job description

Imagine working at the forefront of innovation in fluid-flow technology, with over 1,400 colleagues across the globe, and contributing to a legacy of excellence that spans eight manufacturing facilities on four continents. Armstrong Fluid Technology is more than just a leader in our industry; we are a community of the brightest and most creative minds, driven by a shared mission to engineer the future and safeguard our planet. As part of our team, you'll be immersed in an environment that fosters growth, creativity, and collaboration. Here, you'll have the opportunity to push boundaries, tackle exciting challenges, and develop cutting-edge solutions that promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Every day offers the chance to make a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable future, driving innovations that help lower global carbon footprints. Together, we’re creating a legacy that goes beyond business—one that’s changing the world for the better. In this role, you will lead our India foundry operations with full accountability for production excellence opereational trainformation, and strategic growth. You'll drive the facility's evolution from tradition bronze casting to advanced stainless steel manufacturing, implementing automation and lean practices that position us for future. As a key member of our global opreations leadership team, you'll ensure our India foundry delivers world-class quality, maintains optimal inventory levels, and serves our global customer base with excellence while fostering a positive, engaged workforce culture Key Accountabilities Operations Leadership & Performance Lead all foundry manufacturing activities including bronze impeller production using both machine core and hand core processes, ensuring consistent quality, on-time delivery, and cost efficiency. Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for the transition from bronze to stainless steel casting capabilities by conducting feasibility studies, process development, and qualification activities. Drive achievement of key performance metrics including safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity targets across all production areas [Automation & Operational Excellence] including sustainability initiatives that reduce waste, energy consumption, and environmental impact [Financial Management & Strategic Planning]. Support and lead the automation transformation roadmap for the foundry, identifying and implementing technologies that improve efficiency, quality, and capacity. Work with engineering teams to design, specify, and commission automated systems for core making, casting, finishing, and material handling processes including to ensure new material capabilities meet customer requirements and quality standards. Coordinate changes to production workflows and layouts to maximize the benefits of automation investments. Lead/sponsor continuous improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing principles and problem-solving methodologies [Operations, Supply Chain & Inventory Management]. Support optimization of secondary supplier relationships for raw materials, consumables, tooling, and outsourced services to ensure quality, reliability, and cost Work with supply chain teams to create and monitor inventory management plans that maintain 95% safety stock availability in the HUB at all times. Coordinate changes to procurement strategies and supplier partnerships that reduce lead times and improve material flow. Participate in supplier development programs and quality improvement initiatives with key vendors. People Development & Employee Relations : Support the development of a highly skilled, engaged, and motivated workforce through effective talent management, training programs, and career development Work with HR teams to create and monitor employee engagement strategies that build trust, transparency, and open communication across all levels. Coordinate changes to compensation, benefits, and recognition programs that are competitive and equitable. Participate in the cultivation of a positive workplace culture that emphasizes safety, respect, collaboration, and continuous learning, reducing the risk of unionization through proactive employee relations [Material Transition Strategy]. Support the maintenance of world-class safety performance with a goal of zero incidents through robust safety management systems and continuous risk Work with quality teams to create and monitor quality assurance processes that ensure 100% conformance to customer specifications and industry Coordinate changes to ensure full compliance with all environmental, health, safety, and regulatory requirements. Support the development and management of annual operating budgets, capital investment plans, and financial forecasts for the foundry. Work with finance teams to create and monitor cost reduction initiatives and productivity improvement programs that enhance profitability. Coordinate changes to manufacturing strategies aligned with corporate objectives and market demands. Participate in business reviews with senior leadership, providing insights and recommendations on operational performance and strategic opportunities What We're Looking for To thrive in this role, you should bring: Education and Experience Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline. 15-18 years of progressive experience in foundry or casting operations, with at least 5-7 years in senior leadership roles managing engineering, manufacturing, and distribution operations in an industrial environment. Demonstrated knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous casting processes, metallurgy principles, foundry equipment, and industry best Proven track record of leading operational transformations, including automation implementation and material/process transitions. Experience managing multi-cultural teams and driving change in complex organizational environments. Knowledge of Indian labor laws, industrial regulations, policies, and Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies strongly preferred. Technical Skills Deep understanding of foundry operations including pattern making, core making, melting, pouring, heat treatment, finishing, and quality control processes for bronze and stainless steel castings. Proficiency in manufacturing technologies, automation systems, and Industry 4.0 concepts applicable to foundry environments. Strong knowledge of supply chain management, procurement strategies, inventory optimization, and supplier quality management. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP/MRP system A self-starter attitude with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment. Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to manage conflicts and navigate challenges within various organizational structures. Project management capabilities with experience leading capital projects and operational improvement initiatives. Soft Skills The capability to simplify complex problems, conduct root cause analysis, and provide clear, well-thought-out recommendations that drive business result. Team-oriented leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to build, develop, and inspire high-performing teams across multiple function. Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with employees at all levels, senior executives, customers, and external stakeholders. Cultural sensitivity and emotional intelligence to lead diverse teams and foster an inclusive workplace environment. Strong business acumen with the ability to balance operational excellence, customer satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance. Change management expertise with a track record of successfully leading organizations through significant transformations. Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution capability to drive both long-term vision and short-term results. Why Armstrong Fluid Technology? By joining us, you’ll become part of a global community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of fluid-flow technology. This role offers a rare opportunity – to build something from the ground up. You will establish Armstrong’s Industrial RSEC function, shape how the company engages with some of the world’s most demanding industrial customers and grow into the leader of a function that will define Armstrong’s industrial commercial capability for years to come. Together, we’ll build tomorrow’s solutions today.