The Executive Director – Automotive Fabrication Technologies is responsible for the strategic leadership, innovation, and execution of all fabrication processes and technologies within the automotive manufacturing ecosystem. This role oversees the development, standardization, and implementation of world-class fabrication capabilities including sheet metal forming, structural assembly, joining, and automation across global operations. The Executive Director plays a critical role in advancing productivity, product quality, and cost-efficiency while supporting new vehicle launches and future manufacturing models.
Define and lead the global strategy for automotive fabrication technologies including stamping, laser cutting, welding, structural assembly, and advanced joining.
Oversee the development and deployment of new fabrication methods aligned with lightweighting, electrification, and sustainability goals.
Lead cross-functional collaboration between product design, manufacturing engineering, operations, and supply chain to ensure fabrication readiness for new programs.
Drive continuous improvement in fabrication process efficiency, line speed, tooling life, and material utilization.
Guide CAPEX investments, digital transformation, and automation roadmaps for fabrication areas.
Ensure all fabrication systems meet structural, safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
Build and mentor a high-performance team of fabrication and process engineers, tooling experts, and automation specialists.
Represent the fabrication function in executive-level reviews, strategic planning, and business development discussions.
Stay abreast of emerging technologies in materials science, robotics, additive manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 solutions.
Establish global standards, technical guidelines, and governance frameworks for fabrication systems.
Advanced Fabrication Process Development:
Lead innovation in high-speed stamping, roll forming, hydroforming, and hot stamping for BIW and chassis parts.
Drive implementation of high-strength steel, aluminum, and multi-material joining solutions.
Welding & Joining Strategy:
Oversee welding technology selection (MIG, spot, laser, friction stir) and ensure compatibility with new material systems.
Support hybrid joining processes combining adhesives, mechanical fastening, and thermal methods.
Automation & Digital Manufacturing:
Enable smart fabrication with robotics, AI-based inspection, digital twins, and predictive maintenance.
Develop digital traceability and MES integration across fabrication processes.
New Program Industrialization & Launch Support:
Ensure fabrication readiness, tooling validation, and launch execution for new vehicle platforms.
Collaborate with design and R&D to ensure manufacturability and structural performance.
Sustainability & Lightweighting:
Champion sustainable fabrication practices including scrap reduction, green material sourcing, and energy-efficient systems.
Lead initiatives for weight reduction without compromising structural integrity.
Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
20+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing and fabrication, with 10+ years in senior leadership roles.
Deep technical expertise in fabrication methods, tooling design, process validation, and material science.
Demonstrated success in leading global engineering teams and scaling fabrication technologies across programs and geographies.
Strong understanding of automotive product development, APQP, PPAP, and industrial engineering.
Strategic thinker with excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.