Head of Design Center Operations

Head of Design Center Operations

Manila | On-site | Two-shift production operation

 

We run a 200+ person design center that functions as a production system, not a service queue.

Work arrives in batches, moves through defined stages, crosses shift boundaries, and must deliver on strict turnaround times with minimal rework. This role exists to make that system predictable, measurable, and calm.

 

What You Will Own

End-to-end performance of a two-shift operation

Throughput, cycle time, and true work-in-progress (not surface-level dashboards)

Shift handoffs that do not depend on individual ownership

WIP limits and load balancing based on capacity, not pressure

Operating discipline that produces boring, repeatable days

 

How You Think

You optimize flow, not individual effort

You expect metrics to be wrong until proven otherwise

You enforce limits even when exceptions seem convenient

You design systems that work without constant escalation

You value predictability over heroics

 

Background That Fits

Large-scale operations with batch or wave-based intake

Environments where work moves through multiple stages and quality gates

Direct accountability for delivery metrics, not customer sentiment

Experience leading 100+ people through managers across shifts

Typical matches include manufacturing, healthcare operations, fulfillment/logistics, and delivery-oriented shared services.

 

Backgrounds That Do Not Translate Well

Roles centered on real-time demand, individual conversations, or exception-driven workflows

Operations optimized primarily around responsiveness, flexibility, or subjective outcomes

Environments where escalation is the primary control mechanism

 

Non-Negotiables

On-site in Manila — this is a hands-on, floor-level leadership role

Two-shift accountability — success requires visibility across both shifts

Choosing ownership over compensation optimization — candidates motivated primarily by short-term pay movement will not succeed here

 

Success Looks Like

Work moves without waiting for people to return

WIP is visible, controlled, and declining

Late deliveries become rare, not normal

Leadership spends less time intervening and more time observing

 

If you recognize yourself in this description, you’ll likely do well here.

If not, this role will feel restrictive.