The Director – Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) is responsible for leading the strategy, deployment, and continuous evolution of MES platforms across the manufacturing network. This role drives the digital transformation of shop floor operations by integrating real-time production data, optimizing manufacturing workflows, and enhancing traceability, compliance, and efficiency.
Define and implement the MES roadmap aligned with business and operational goals.
Lead cross-functional teams in the design, configuration, rollout, and support of MES solutions.
Ensure seamless integration of MES with ERP, SCADA, PLC, QMS, and other enterprise and plant systems.
Establish standards, best practices, and governance for MES deployment and lifecycle management.
Monitor system performance, data quality, and user adoption across all manufacturing sites.
Identify and drive opportunities for process improvements, automation, and digital analytics.
Manage MES-related vendors, licenses, contracts, and project budgets.
Develop training programs and change management strategies to ensure organizational alignment.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., GMP, FDA, ISO) and data security policies.
MES Strategy & Architecture:
Define the long-term vision for MES deployment and integration, aligned with Industry 4.0 and smart factory initiatives.
System Integration:
Oversee robust integration between MES and systems such as ERP (e.g., SAP), SCADA, PLCs, LIMS, WMS, and quality systems.
Real-Time Visibility & Traceability:
Enable end-to-end digital visibility of production, from raw materials to finished goods, ensuring traceability and compliance.
Operational Efficiency & Optimization:
Leverage MES capabilities to improve OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), reduce downtime, and enhance throughput.
Standardization & Governance:
Drive standard MES templates, data models, and workflows across sites to ensure consistency and scalability.
Analytics & Decision Support:
Use MES data to enable predictive analytics, quality monitoring, and decision-making tools for operations management.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Work closely with IT, engineering, quality, and production teams to align MES capabilities with business processes.
Change Management & Training:
Lead the organizational change effort around MES adoption through communication, training, and support structures.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Technology, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in MES or manufacturing IT systems, with 5+ years in a leadership role.
Expertise with major MES platforms (e.g., Siemens Opcenter, Rockwell FTPS, AVEVA/Wonderware, GE Proficy, or similar).
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, digital transformation, and system integration.
Experience in regulated environments (e.g., pharma, food & beverage, automotive) preferred.
Strong project management, vendor management, and team leadership skills.
Excellent communication, analytical, and strategic thinking capabilities.