Head of Manufacturing - Yarns

Date: 24 Feb 2025

Location: North Carolina, US

Company: Coats

Role Purpose

The Head of Manufacturing is responsible for leading and optimizing all manufacturing operations across yarn production facilities. This role ensures high efficiency, cost control, quality excellence, and sustainability while aligning manufacturing strategies with business objectives. The position requires expertise in textile manufacturing processes, continuous improvement, and supply chain coordination, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

 

Principal Accountabilities and Key Activities

  1. Manufacturing Strategy & Operational Excellence
  • Develop and execute the manufacturing strategy to drive operational efficiency, cost optimization, and innovation.
  • Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance productivity.
  • Ensure alignment with business goals, customer demands, and industry trends.
  1. Production & Process Optimization
  • Oversee all yarn production operations, ensuring adherence to quality, efficiency, and cost targets.
  • Optimize spinning, dyeing, and finishing processes to meet technical and commercial requirements.
  • Drive automation, digitalization, and Industry 4.0 initiatives in manufacturing.
  1. Quality, Compliance & Sustainability
  • Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and textile industry standards.
  • Drive sustainability initiatives (e.g., waste reduction, energy efficiency, water management).
  • Maintain strict product quality standards to meet customer and market expectations.
  1. People Leadership & Talent Development
  • Lead and develop a high-performing manufacturing team across the site.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Work with HR to implement training programs for skill development in textile manufacturing.
  1. Supply Chain & Cost Management
  • Collaborate with procurement, planning, and logistics to optimize raw material sourcing and inventory management.
  • Control manufacturing costs, budgets, and CAPEX investments to ensure financial efficiency.
  • Ensure seamless coordination with R&D and commercial teams for new product development.

 

Internal

External

 

Internal Connections:

 

  • MD and Divisional CEO – Reports to senior leadership and aligns manufacturing strategy with business objectives.
  • Manufacturing Teams – Direct oversight of production teams, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance.
  • Engineering & Maintenance Teams – Ensures optimal machine performance, upgrades, and preventive maintenance.
  • Quality Assurance – Works closely to maintain high product standards and develop innovations in yarn manufacturing.
  • Supply Chain & Procurement Teams – Coordinates raw material sourcing, inventory levels, and production planning.
  • Finance & Cost Control – Manages budgets, CAPEX investments, and cost optimization initiatives.
  • HR & Training Teams – Collaborates on workforce planning, training programs, and talent development.
  • Sales & Customer Service – Aligns production capacity with market demand and customer requirements.
  • Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) Teams – Ensures compliance with industry regulations and sustainability initiatives.
  • IT & Digital Transformation Teams – Supports ERP, SAP, and automation projects in manufacturing.

 

External Connections:

 

  • Raw Material Suppliers – Engages with fiber and dye suppliers to ensure quality and cost-effective procurement.
  • Machinery & Equipment Vendors – Works with manufacturers of spinning, dyeing, and finishing equipment.
  • Industry Associations & Regulatory Bodies – Ensures compliance with ISO, OSHA, environmental, and textile industry standards.
  • Customers & Brands – Coordinates with major textile brands, retailers, and B2B partners to meet production needs.
  • Logistics & Distribution Partners – Manages relationships with freight forwarders and warehousing providers for efficient supply chain operations.
  • Consultants & External Auditors – Works with Lean Six Sigma experts, financial auditors, and quality assessors.
  • Government & Sustainability Organizations – Collaborates on initiatives related to eco-friendly manufacturing, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.

 

Education, Qualifications and Experience

Essential

Desirable

  1. Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, Textile Technology, or related field.
  2. Experience: Minimum 10+ years in manufacturing leadership roles within the yarn or textile industry.
  3. Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of spinning, dyeing, finishing, and automation in yarn production.
  4. Leadership: Proven experience managing large teams, multiple facilities, and complex operations.
  5. Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making abilities.
  6. Systems: Experience with ERP, SAP and digital manufacturing systems.
  1. Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt / Black Belt).
  2. Experience in sustainable manufacturing practices.
  3. Background in international textile markets and supply chain management.