Director – Global Operations Textile, based in Zug, Switzerland f/m 100%

Autoliv's primary goal is to Save More Lives. Our products never get a second chance. This is why we can never compromise on quality. We are working to increase vehicle safety by developing seatbelts, airbags and steering wheels and you can be part of our team as Director – Global Operations Textile.

Director – Global Operations Textile at Autoliv plays a crucial role in driving the success of the Operations globally. This role requires analytical and strategic skills of a leader experienced in the automotive sector, capable of developing and executing strategies that enhance market share, foster customer relationships, and drive profitability.

You will report directly to the Vice President – Product Line Airbag & Wheel (PLAW).

Job summary:

• Developing and securing an efficient value delivery for industrial operation in collaboration with divisions.
• Industrial set-up from footprint to production process, manufacturing standards and automation as well as operational excellence.
• Contributing to total global product cost responsibility of PLAW.
• Maintaining visionary operational leadership while collaborating globally.
• Being a permanent member of the operations leadership team of the PLAW.
• Building a globally aligned, scalable, and future-proof manufacturing footprint.
• Contributing to world-class operational performance through standardized process and continuous improvement.
• Securing sustainable cost leadership in manufacturing.
• Establishing and evolving state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities.
• Developing a resilient, high-performing, and innovative global operations organization.

Core responsibilities & activities:

• Industrial Setup Strategy: Develop and implement a long-term, forward-looking global industrial and capacity footprint strategy. Define level of automation per Division. Collaborate with divisions to simulate scenarios, define the optimal footprint, and build a robust investment roadmap. Ensure efficient global capacity utilization and value delivery across the network.
• Operational Excellence: Lead the global deployment and continuous improvement of the Autoliv Production System (APS), including Lean/Kaizen, digitalization, and automation. Drive operational excellence together with global Operational Excellence team through measurable improvements in key KPIs (e.g. OEE, cycle time, and productivity). Define and implement cross-plant best-practice benchmark/standards to maximize scalability and performance.
• Cost Optimization: Drive initiatives to identify and execute cost savings and reassess Make-or-Buy decisions. Support total product cost optimization through manufacturing standardization and automation.
• Process Development & Benchmarking: Drive internal and external benchmarking of manufacturing performance (e.g., takt time, scrap rates, automation levels). Lead global process development and innovation projects (GPP) (e.g. new cell layouts, use of AI). Work closely with divisional and external partners to define and deploy cutting-edge manufacturing process standards (MPS).
• Leadership & Culture: Lead and develop a high-performing global operations team. Build a strong succession and talent pipeline, and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Champion an agile and inclusive leadership style that enables ownership and accountability.
• Performance Management: Implement a robust global KPI framework to track progress, ensure target achievement, and provide transparency to executive leadership.

Required skills and qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have a mixed background with a deep understanding of the automotive market, business acumen and engineering background. Following skills and experience would support your success in this role:

• 10+ years of professional experience (ideally in Automotive industry).
• Masters or Bachelor in Manufacturing – or Science Engineering (preferred).
• Technical integrity.
• Desire for continuous improvement.
• Ability to collaborate x-functionally and think E2E.
• Strong management through networking and communication skills.
• Capable to operate in a matrix organization.
• Business English (must), any additional language is a plus.

Our offer:

• Daily cooperation with global teams on interesting projects.
• Entrepreneurial culture with a possibility to drive innovation.
• 6 weeks paid vacation per year.
• Above average benefits including solid company’s pension plan.
• Healthcare benefits.
• Home office in Switzerland.
• Paid company mobile.
• Regular team events.

Personal characteristics:

You are a curious and analytical person with strong leadership skills. You have a desire for continuous improvement, and you have strong stakeholder management and communication skills. You are also able to operate and navigate in a global matrix organization and open for frequent travels. This global role is strictly located in Zug (Central Switzerland). All candidates must have a valid work and residence permit, enabling them to legally work in Switzerland. We are excited to receive your application (CV and motivation letter in English) via our Career Homepage.

We will be more than glad to chat with you about your experience and your career goals.

In our international work setting, you will find a range of opportunities that are designed to enhance your career and personal development. Including new and different perspectives is part of what ensures the team’s success. We are committed to develop people’s skills, knowledge and creative potential. Our training and development programs emphasize technical competency, leadership development and business management skill.

                              More lives saved – more life lived!