The Group Head – Automation and Controls is responsible for setting the vision, strategy, and execution framework for all automation, instrumentation, and control system initiatives across the organization’s plants and facilities. This role ensures operational excellence, standardization, and technology innovation in process automation and digital control infrastructure.
Define and lead the enterprise-wide automation and control systems strategy aligned with production, quality, safety, and sustainability goals.
Establish and enforce standardized automation architecture across plants, including PLC, SCADA, DCS, HMI, and MES systems.
Create governance models for system design, integration, change control, and lifecycle management.
Oversee planning, design, and execution of automation projects (greenfield, brownfield, and retrofits) across all sites.
Lead multidisciplinary teams of automation, instrumentation, and control engineers.
Manage system integration partners and ensure on-time, on-budget project delivery with high reliability.
Use automation and data analytics to drive OEE improvements, energy efficiency, and predictive maintenance.
Monitor and optimize control loops, batch operations, recipe management, and alarm handling.
Champion digitization, remote monitoring, and real-time KPIs to improve plant visibility and responsiveness.
Evaluate and implement emerging technologies such as IIoT, digital twins, edge computing, robotics, and AI-driven control.
Develop scalable frameworks for smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 integration.
Lead pilot programs for advanced analytics, autonomous systems, and connected devices.
Ensure all control systems comply with process safety, cybersecurity (ISA/IEC 62443), and regulatory standards (GMP, FDA, ISO, etc.).
Establish robust backup, disaster recovery, and fail-safe protocols for critical systems.
Conduct periodic audits and system health checks.
Expertise in industrial automation systems: Siemens, Rockwell, ABB, Emerson, Honeywell, etc.
Strong background in process control, instrumentation, and system architecture.
Proven ability to lead large engineering teams and complex multi-site automation programs.
Strategic thinker with solid execution, vendor management, and budgeting capabilities.
Excellent communication and stakeholder alignment skills.
Bachelor’s or Master’s in Automation, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Control Engineering
15–20+ years of experience in automation and controls, including leadership roles in multi-plant environments
Certified in relevant platforms or standards (e.g., ISA, TÜV, PMP, Six Sigma) preferred
Exposure to digital transformation and smart manufacturing is a strong advantage