Global Manufacturing Director

Up to €240,000 base + circa 40% bonus + benefits | Global Manufacturing Director | Schiphol, Netherlands | Hybrid: 2-3 days in the officeQualifying questions: * Have you led manufacturing or operations within a global organisation undergoing large-scale transformation or modernisation? * Can you evidence accountability for multi-site performance - delivering measurable improvement in cost, quality, and efficiency? * Have you driven the adoption of new manufacturing technologies (automation, robotics, AI, or data-led systems) at enterprise scale?Lead a global manufacturing transformation at scale This is a senior, high-impact role for a manufacturing leader who combines strategic vision with hands-on operational delivery. You'll set the direction for a complex, international manufacturing network - shaping how global operations, technology, and sustainability come together to drive competitive advantage. You'll be part of a global consumer goods business recognised for pace, complexity, and ambition. It's an environment where you lead from the front, take ownership, and deliver results. You'll thrive if you're comfortable navigating ambiguity, influencing across a matrix, and driving tangible outcomes through people, process, and technology.What you'll doDefine and deliver the global manufacturing strategy, aligning operations to corporate growth objectives.Lead multi-site manufacturing teams to standardise processes, improve cost efficiency, and raise quality and safety standards.Champion operational excellence through Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement frameworks.Oversee global CAPEX, budgeting, and cost-of-conversion optimisation.Drive the adoption of automation, robotics, AI, and data analytics to enhance productivity and decision-making.Partner with Supply Chain, Procurement, and Finance to optimise resource utilisation and production capacity.Lead sustainability initiatives focused on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and circular manufacturing.Ensure compliance with international quality, environmental, and safety standards.Report manufacturing performance through global KPIs, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement.Represent manufacturing within senior leadership forums, influencing strategic decisions across functions.What you'll bringProven senior leadership in global or multi-region manufacturing environments.Experience leading transformation across complex, matrix-style organisations.Strong technical and operational grounding - Lean, Six Sigma, and process optimisation.Track record of delivering measurable cost, efficiency, and quality improvements.Evidence of integrating advanced manufacturing technologies and digital systems.Deep understanding of regulatory, safety, and environmental compliance.Ability to lead senior teams and develop future operational leaders.Commercial awareness with strong stakeholder influence at executive level.Based in the Netherlands (Schiphol area) with flexibility to travel globally.