The Chief Automation Officer (CAO) – Manufacturing is responsible for shaping and executing the company’s automation vision, strategy, and execution across all manufacturing operations. This executive role leads the adoption of cutting-edge automation, robotics, AI/ML, and digital control systems to drive operational excellence, productivity, and scalability in line with Industry 4.0.
Define and lead the global automation strategy aligned with business goals, innovation, and competitiveness.
Oversee deployment of end-to-end automation technologies, including robotics, control systems, MES, SCADA, and IIoT.
Champion smart manufacturing, digital twins, and AI-driven decision-making across production facilities.
Integrate automation with ERP, MES, PLM, and quality systems to enable seamless data flow and performance visibility.
Ensure standardization of automation platforms, architectures, and protocols across sites.
Lead the automation governance model, including risk management, ROI analysis, and compliance frameworks.
Collaborate with Operations, IT, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain leaders to ensure cross-functional success.
Foster a culture of innovation, digital fluency, and continuous improvement within automation teams.
Build partnerships with technology providers, integrators, and industry consortia to stay ahead of emerging trends.
Drive organizational change and capability development through automation-centric transformation.
Enterprise Automation Strategy:
Develop and execute a unified automation roadmap, encompassing robotics, machine controls, digital systems, and cyber-physical infrastructure.
Smart Factory & Industry 4.0 Enablement:
Drive the transformation to intelligent factories using IIoT, edge computing, AI/ML, digital twins, and real-time analytics.
System Integration & Interoperability:
Ensure seamless integration between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems, including ERP, MES, SCADA, and control systems.
Technology Governance & Standardization:
Define enterprise standards for automation architecture, software platforms, protocols (e.g., OPC UA, MQTT), and lifecycle management.
Risk, Compliance & Cybersecurity:
Enforce industrial cybersecurity (IEC 62443) and functional safety (IEC 61511/61508) standards across all automation assets.
Performance Optimization:
Use automation to enhance OEE, reduce downtime, and optimize energy and resource efficiency across facilities.
Leadership & Talent Development:
Build and lead a high-performing global automation team; attract and develop talent in mechatronics, robotics, and digital manufacturing.
Innovation & Partnerships:
Lead external innovation with OEMs, startups, and research institutions to future-proof the automation strategy.
Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
15+ years of experience in industrial automation with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or C-level role.
Proven track record of deploying enterprise-wide automation systems in complex manufacturing environments.
Deep expertise in automation platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, ABB, Fanuc), SCADA, MES, robotics, and digital transformation.
Experience with regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, and enterprise integration.
Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills.