Operations Strategy & Launch Manager

The Strategy & Launch Manager is responsible for leading and executing all phases of a new plant launch, ensuring a successful ramp from initial planning through full production. This role will oversee the introduction of new equipment and processes for Surface Mount Technology (SMT) circuit board manufacturing, culminating in the production and delivery of supercapacitor units to OEM customer.

This individual will own the end-to-end launch strategy, including timeline development, cross-functional coordination, and performance execution. The role includes direct leadership of a Launch Manager and accountability for ensuring all milestones are achieved on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards.

This position is expected to be highly engaged in day-to-day manufacturing floor operations, maintaining strong visibility into production activity and ensuring alignment between launch strategy and real-time execution.

• Develop and own the comprehensive launch plan, covering all phases from concept through full production ramp
• Establish and manage a detailed timeline, with clear milestones and deliverables
• Lead the execution of plant startup activities, including facility readiness, equipment installation, and process validation
• Identify risks and develop mitigation plans to ensure uninterrupted progress toward launch objectives
• Lead cross-functional launch teams, fostering collaboration, urgency, and accountability
• Ensure readiness for production ramp, including staffing alignment, training plans, and operational workflows
• Oversee production ramp-up from initial builds through full-scale manufacturing volumes
• Validate process capability, throughput, and quality targets to support OEM customer requirements
• Develop a deep, working knowledge of daily operations, production challenges, and process flow
• Partner closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams to resolve issues in real time
• Ensure customer delivery commitments are achieved during and after ramp-up

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing, with significant involvement in product or plant launches
• Proven experience managing complex, cross-functional projects in a high-volume manufacturing environment
• Experience with SMT, electronics manufacturing, or automotive/OEM supply chain strongly preferred

Clarios is the force behind the world’s most recognizable car battery brands, powering vehicles from leading automakers like Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. With 18,000 employees worldwide, we develop, manufacture, and distribute energy storage solutions while recovering, recycling, and reusing up to 99% of battery materials - setting the standard for sustainability in our industry. At Clarios, we’re not just making batteries; we’re shaping the future of sustainable transportation. Join our mission to innovate, push boundaries, and make a real impact. Discover your potential at Clarios - where your power meets endless possibilities.

We value the leadership, adaptability, and technical expertise developed through military service. At Clarios, those capabilities thrive in an environment built on grit, ingenuity, and passion - where you can grow your career while helping to power progress worldwide. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics.