Head of Production

About the role

PULSE, the joint venture between EDGE and INDRA, is looking for a Head of Production to lead manufacturing operations and drive the ramp-up and execution of advanced defense system production. The role ensures excellence across Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost while building a stable, scalable and high-performing manufacturing environment able to meet demanding customer commitments.

Key responsibilities

• Own end-to-end manufacturing execution (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost), driving clear KPIs, tier routines and escalation governance on the shop floor.
• Define and execute the production ramp-up strategy (capacity model, takt/line balance, staffing and shift model) aligned with industrialization milestones and readiness criteria.
• Keep standard work, work instructions, traceability and configuration control robust and audit-ready after changes.
• Drive continuous improvement to increase stability and productivity (waste elimination, 5S, flow optimization, bottleneck removal).
• Deploy structured problem solving (8D/QC Story) and risk prevention methods (FMEA/PFMEA), closing corrective actions and preventing recurrence.
• Work with Planning and Supply on S&OP, schedule adherence and constraints/shortages to protect customer commitments.
• Partner with Quality, Engineering and Maintenance on TPM/PM actions, containment and process validation during ramp-up.
• Represent Production in customer/OEM discussions, audit preparation and reviews when required.

Required profile

• 12+ years in manufacturing/operations leadership in high-reliability environments (defense/aerospace, electronics or similar).
• Experience in the UAE is preferred, ideally supporting factory start-ups and new production line launches.
• Track record in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing; defense industry exposure highly valued.
• Experience interfacing with OEM customers and supporting audits/reviews in regulated or customer-controlled environments is a plus.

Required skills

• Familiarity with AS9100 Rev D principles.
• Structured quality and continuous improvement tools: 8D, QC Story, FMEA/PFMEA, Lean Manufacturing, TPM.
• APQP and/or DMAIC exposure is appreciated.