Manufacturing Operations Manager

A leading global brand is seeking a Manufacturing Operations Manager to join their team in Ho Chi Minh. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for you to make a significant impact by overseeing the development, commercialization, and production activities across multiple factories in Vietnam.

You will be at the heart of ensuring product quality, managing operational excellence, and nurturing professional relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. The organisation is renowned for its commitment to high standards and continuous improvement, providing a supportive environment where your expertise in footwear manufacturing will be valued and developed. With flexible working opportunities, generous pension contributions, and ongoing training programmes, this position is perfect for someone who thrives in a collaborative setting and is passionate about delivering outstanding results.

• You will have the chance to manage end-to-end operations across several factories, ensuring seamless production processes and maintaining strong vendor relationships throughout Vietnam.
• The company provides a supportive leadership structure that encourages knowledge sharing, personal growth, and professional development through regular training opportunities.
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements and generous pension contributions as part of a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and career progression.

What you'll do:

As Manufacturing Operations Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving operational success across multiple factories in Vietnam. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve coordinating teams responsible for development, commercialization, and production while continuously searching for new sourcing opportunities. You will review performance metrics against established targets, manage complex product development timelines, negotiate costings with key stakeholders, and proactively address any potential production challenges. By fostering strong relationships internally and externally, you will ensure smooth delivery schedules and uphold rigorous quality standards. Your ability to oversee compliance activities across different countries will further reinforce the organisation’s reputation for excellence. Success in this role requires a blend of technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and a passion for continuous improvement within manufacturing operations.

• Oversee the development, commercialization, and production teams within assigned factories, ensuring all activities are executed efficiently and in line with organisational objectives.
• Search for suitable alternative sources and maintain up-to-date knowledge of available vendors in Vietnam to optimise sourcing strategies.
• Review factory performance regularly against targets set by senior management, implementing improvements where necessary to achieve operational excellence.
• Manage the product development process including critical path analysis and sample requirements, offering constructive feedback to enhance outcomes.
• Coordinate negotiations on product costing between brand representatives and factories based on target prices provided by the brand.
• Identify potential production issues during commercialization processes and collaborate with customers and factories to determine appropriate solutions.
• Supervise production delivery schedules with both factories and customers, negotiating capacity bookings and minimum order quantities as required.
• Maintain effective and professional working relationships with internal teams as well as external partners to foster a positive work environment.
• Oversee product quality control measures and manage the transition towards a robust Quality Assurance process within the manufacturing operations.
• Ensure compliance with business standards activities across nominated countries, promoting best practices throughout all operational areas.

What you bring:

Your extensive background in footwear manufacturing operations equips you with the practical know-how needed to excel as Manufacturing Operations Manager. Drawing on your academic qualifications in fashion or related fields, you bring deep industry insight into every aspect of product development and sourcing strategy. Years spent supervising teams within multinational environments have honed your people management abilities—allowing you to nurture talent while maintaining high standards. Your familiarity with Asian manufacturers gives you an edge when navigating local market dynamics. You are adept at balancing strict quality requirements with flexibility when circumstances demand it. Your inquisitive nature drives continuous learning while your communication skills enable you to build trust across diverse teams. Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools ensures you can analyse data effectively while your command of English allows seamless interaction with international partners.

• Bachelor’s degree in fashion or footwear or related discipline is essential for understanding industry-specific requirements.
• At least 15 years of operational experience within footwear manufacturing, including five years in a supervisory capacity ideally gained from buying offices or multinational companies.
• Comprehensive understanding of business strategies related to sourcing; customer-focused approach is highly valued.
• Proven familiarity with branded product development processes as well as Asian footwear manufacturers enhances your effectiveness.
• General operational management experience coupled with technical knowledge of footwear production ensures you can handle complex challenges.
• People management skills are crucial for developing teams and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to balance uncompromising standards regarding quality and deadlines with awareness of when compromises are appropriate demonstrates maturity.
• Inquisitive mindset paired with excellent communication skills supports problem-solving across international contexts.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel & PowerPoint enables efficient reporting and data analysis.
• Advanced written and spoken English skills facilitate clear communication with global stakeholders.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as a global leader committed to excellence in manufacturing operations. Employees benefit from an inclusive culture that values collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mutual support. Flexible working opportunities allow you to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments while generous pension contributions provide long-term financial security. Regular training programmes ensure that your skills remain current and relevant—empowering you to grow alongside the business. The company’s dedication to high standards extends beyond products; it encompasses employee wellbeing through comprehensive benefits packages tailored to individual needs. Working here means joining a network of professionals who share your passion for quality craftsmanship and operational efficiency within the footwear industry.

What's next:

If you are ready to take your career to new heights by joining an organisation that values your expertise and supports your growth, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided below.

Due to the high volume of applications we are experiencing, our team will only be in touch with you if your application is shortlisted.