Project Director (Job Code: 6206)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Project Director
Department: Project Management Office / Operations
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Expatriate (European/American)
Direct Reports: 20+ (Cross-functional team including Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Process Improvement)
Location: Pearl River Delta (PRD), China
Employment Type: Full-time, Open to Global Talents (No nationality restriction)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

We are a wholly-owned European/American multinational enterprise and a global leader in the premium durable consumer goods industry. With a heritage of excellence, innovation, and craftsmanship, we design and manufacture high-end products that are sold in over 50 countries worldwide. Our plant in the Pearl River Delta is a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub that serves both the Asian market and global export channels. We are committed to operational excellence, sustainability, and fostering a diverse, multicultural work environment.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking an exceptional and strategic Project Director to lead our critical manufacturing and business transformation projects. In this high-visibility role, you will be the driving force behind product industrialization, capacity expansion, and process optimization initiatives. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will manage a sizable team of 20+ professionals and act as the bridge between the boardroom strategy and shop-floor execution. This position is open to global candidates who possess a strong technical foundation and the leadership gravitas to operate in a fast-paced, cross-cultural environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Project Leadership

1. Lead and oversee the full lifecycle of complex, high-value projects (NPI – New Product Introduction, facility upgrades, and automation implementation) from concept to mass production.
2. Translate the CEO’s strategic vision into actionable project roadmaps, ensuring alignment with global business objectives and financial targets.
3. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Technical & Operational Management

1. Leverage your engineering expertise to review and interpret technical drawings, 3D models, and engineering specifications, providing critical technical direction to the team.
2. Ensure all projects comply with global safety, quality, and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, CE, UL).
3. Identify and mitigate technical risks proactively to prevent production delays or quality failures.

Team Leadership & People Management

1. Directly manage and mentor a cross-functional team of 20+ subordinates, including engineers, production supervisors, and project specialists.
2. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance. Conduct performance evaluations and develop succession plans for key talents.

Stakeholder & Cross-Cultural Communication

1. Serve as the primary communication interface between the China operations and the global headquarters.
2. Present project status, budget reports, and strategic recommendations directly to the CEO and the Board of Directors in a clear, concise manner.
3. Negotiate with external suppliers, engineering partners, and government authorities to secure resources and approvals.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Educational Background

1. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, or related field) is mandatory. A Master’s degree (MBA or M.Sc.) is a strong advantage.

Professional Experience

1. Minimum 12–15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, project management, or engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (Director or Senior Manager level).
2. Proven experience working within the premium consumer goods, automotive, or high-precision manufacturing industries.
3. Must have solid working experience in China or other Asian countries (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand, India), with a deep understanding of the regional supply chain, labor dynamics, and business culture.

Technical Competencies

1. Strong technical acumen with the ability to read, interpret, and challenge complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models.
2. Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, metal stamping, assembly, surface finishing, and automation).
3. Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, SAP, JIRA) and methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, or Lean Six Sigma).

Language & Communication

1. English at native/proficiency level (spoken and written) – must be able to articulate complex business and technical strategies to the expatriate CEO and global stakeholders without any language barrier.
2. Mandarin Chinese is a significant plus, but not mandatory for non-Chinese candidates.

Core Competencies

1. Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to influence, inspire, and unite a diverse workforce.
2. Outstanding problem-solving capabilities and a decisive, hands-on management style.
3. High emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity to thrive in a multinational matrix organization.

WHAT WE OFFER

1. Global Exposure: Direct reporting line to the CEO and close collaboration with international headquarters.
2. Competitive Remuneration: Attractive salary package + performance bonus + housing allowance (for expatriates) + comprehensive social benefits.
3. Career Growth: A platform to lead transformative projects with significant impact on the company’s global footprint.
4. Multicultural Environment: Work alongside a diverse team of professionals from Europe, the US, and Asia.
5. Work-Life Balance: 5-day work week + generous annual leave + public holidays.