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Plant Manager

Troy, MI

About Slate

Slate is a new US company that is exploring opportunities in the electric vehicle space. 

Who we are looking for:

Slate is looking for a strategic, results-driven Plant Manager to lead our manufacturing operation. Will oversee the launch of our new vehicle assembly plant as well as all ongoing operations and assembly activity.  Central Midwest location in a highly desirable mid-size community.

As the Plant Manager, you will drive operational excellence, develop a manufacturing roadmap aligned with business strategy, and deliver world-class results in safety, quality, delivery, and cost. This is a pivotal role to help shape the future of our electric vehicle operations.  This position reports to the Head of Manufacturing. 

 

What you get to do:

  • Oversee day-to-day operations and long-term planning for manufacturing functions, including operational excellence, production control, inventory management, purchasing, shipping/receiving, and quality assurance.
  • Oversee Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), ensuring a safe and compliant workplace.
  • Translate customer requirements into innovative manufacturing strategies and processes to ensure cost-effective, high-quality production of electric vehicle products.
  • Develop production schedules that optimize equipment utilization, materials availability, and staffing to meet demand while delivering on time and within budget.
  • Plans, directs, and coordinates the activities of the Manufacturing Engineering department.
  • Develop and implement manufacturing processes and procedures to optimize production efficiency, quality, and safety.
  • Drives continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing principles to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve overall operational performance.
  • Drive operational excellence by implementing lean manufacturing principles through strategic planning.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts targeting KPI improvements in Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC).
  • Set and execute plans to support the S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) process, ensuring superior operational efficiency and exceptional customer experience.
  • Establish leadership standard work at the site and foster a culture of accountability through routine team meetings, cross-functional collaboration, and regular Plant Walks.
  • Lead talent development initiatives, including hiring, onboarding, coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Create and foster a pro-people culture that results in a positive and collaborative work environment through direct engagement with the workforce.
  • Drive employee engagement through recognition programs, clear communication strategies, and team collaboration.
  • Act as an ambassador for Slate in the local community to build strong and trusting relationships.  Create and set examples of Slate principles throughout day-to-day interactions.
  • Build and manage budgets for manufacturing operations, ensuring cost control and financial performance.

What you bring to the team:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Business, or Engineering is required.
  • 10+ years’ experience in manufacturing, preferably in the automotive and electric vehicle industry or a closely related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years’ management experience in an automotive manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with manufacturing facility start-up and product launch.
  • A strong background in manufacturing engineering with assembly operations preferred. Work with Engineering (Design and Manufacturing Engineers) team to identify and implement all design and improvements to support manufacturing.
  • Understanding of vehicle builds and experience with vehicle final inspection· Critical organization and time management skills are necessary·
  • Experience working within vehicle assembly at recognized OEM. Have experience of working in a complex relationship organization with contractors·
  • Proven success in streamlining processes, increasing production efficiency, and driving transformational change.
  • Expertise in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Working knowledge of ISO standards and their implementation in a manufacturing environment.
  • A self-motivated, adaptable, and results-driven attitude.
  • Strong project management, organizational, and prioritization abilities with attention to detail.
  • Exceptional communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Flexibility to travel to additional Slate locations as needed.

 

We want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate:

  • Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
  • Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at recar-talent_acquisition@slate.auto or 813-468-7257.

 

 

 

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