As the Manager, you'll define the overarching strategy and roadmap for intelligent inventory and automation solutions. Your primary mission will be to foster innovation, ensure the successful execution of complex technology rollouts, and cultivate a high-performing team that can deliver significant operational improvements. You'll be the champion for cross-functional collaboration, aligning technical initiatives with broader business objectives and demonstrating the tangible impact of our automation investments. Essentially, you're the visionary leader who orchestrates the technical 'how' and 'why,' building the capabilities and team to revolutionize our supply chain and manufacturing operations! This requires exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, deep technical acumen across diverse automation platforms, and a proven track record in managing complex programs and people.
We are looking for an inspiring and experienced Manager, Intelligent Inventory & Logistics Automation to lead our critical initiatives in advanced operational technologies. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for the strategic direction, successful execution, and continuous improvement of our intelligent inventory and logistics automation programs, overseeing a portfolio that includes RFID-enabled Global Transportation Labels (GTLs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and other emerging technologies. You will lead, mentor, and develop a team of technical experts, ensuring they have the resources and guidance to deliver groundbreaking solutions that enhance visibility, efficiency, and safety across our global enterprise.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define and champion the strategic vision and long-term roadmap for intelligent inventory and logistics automation, aligning with overall organizational goals and industry best practices.
- Identify new technologies and opportunities to further optimize material flow, inventory accuracy, and operational processes across both RFID/GTL and AMR domains.
- Translate high-level business requirements into actionable technical strategies and program initiatives.
- Lead, mentor, and coach a team of technical leads, specifically including the Global Transportation Label/RFID Lead and the Technical Solutions Lead for AMRs, as well as their respective specialist teams.
- Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability within the team.
- Responsible for talent acquisition, performance management, career development, and succession planning for the entire Intelligent Inventory & Logistics Automation team.
- Oversee the entire portfolio of intelligent inventory and logistics automation projects, encompassing both RFID/GTL implementation and AMR feasibility/deployment, ensuring timely delivery, adherence to budget, and achievement of defined objectives.
- Establish robust program management processes, risk mitigation strategies, and quality assurance standards for all initiatives.
- Provide high-level technical guidance and strategic direction to project teams, resolving complex challenges and ensuring technical excellence across diverse automation platforms.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Management:
- Serve as a primary liaison and strategic partner to senior leadership across Manufacturing, Supply Chain, IT, Procurement, Finance, and other relevant departments.
- Cultivate strong relationships with key internal stakeholders and external partners (suppliers, technology vendors, integrators) to ensure seamless collaboration and successful project outcomes for both RFID/GTL and AMR initiatives.
- Communicate program status, key decisions, and strategic impacts effectively to diverse audiences, including executive leadership.
- Manage the overall budget for intelligent inventory and logistics automation initiatives, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources across projects, including investments in RFID infrastructure, GTL rollout, and AMR systems.
- Drive cost-benefit analyses and build compelling business cases for new technology investments and program expansions.
- Ensure the development and adherence to global standards, architectural principles, and best practices across all automation deployments (e.g., RFID data architecture, AMR integration protocols, material flow analysis methodologies).
- Champion knowledge sharing and the replication of successful solutions across different facilities and regions.
- Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for automation initiatives, track progress against strategic goals, and quantify the business value delivered by both RFID/GTL and AMR projects.
- Prepare and present comprehensive reports and dashboards on program performance, impact, and future opportunities to senior management.
Experience:
- Educational Foundation: Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred) in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Robotics), Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a closely related technical field.
- Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in logistics, manufacturing, supply chain operations, or industrial automation, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role overseeing technical teams and complex programs.
- Deep understanding and practical experience with a range of automation technologies. T
- RFID: Hardware, software, middleware, integration challenges, and global label standards (e.g., GTL).
- Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): Navigation technologies, material flow analysis, facility assessment for deployment, and integration with WMS/MES.
- Warehouse Management Systems (WMS - especially SAP EWM), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
- Program Management Acumen: Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale, complex technology implementation programs from concept to global rollout. PMP or similar certification is a strong plus.
- Experience working in a global organization, managing projects across different regions and cultures, is highly desirable.
- Proficiency with program management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira), data analysis tools, and enterprise systems (SAP, Loftware, etc.).
Soft Skills required:
- Strategic Thinking & Business Acumen: Ability to think strategically, anticipate future needs, and translate complex technical concepts into clear business value. Strong understanding of global supply chain dynamics and manufacturing processes.
- Exceptional leadership, coaching, mentoring, and team-building skills. Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and develop high-performing technical professionals across diverse automation specializations.
- Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills. Proven ability to influence and negotiate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization and with external partners.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and make sound decisions under pressure.
- Experience with budget management, financial forecasting, and developing ROI analyses for technology investments.
- Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required to support global initiatives and team needs.
- A natural ability to inspire and articulate a compelling vision for the future of intelligent operations, motivating teams and stakeholders to embrace change.
- Proven experience in driving significant organizational change through technology adoption, overcoming resistance, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation.
- The ability to confidently and effectively engage with senior executives, presenting complex information clearly and concisely, and influencing strategic decisions.
- A natural inclination to build strong, collaborative relationships across diverse functions and geographies, leveraging these networks to drive program success.
- The capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, adapting strategies as needed and maintaining focus on long-term objectives despite challenges.
DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, as we are committed with a diverse workforce, and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran and basis of disability.