Toolroom Manager

Responsible for the lifecycle management of stamping assets, toolroom operational excellence, and the technical development of the engineering team. Drive long-term dimensional stability and optimize tool maintenance strategies to maximize Strokes Per Minute (SPM) and minimize downtime

Skills:

• Skin Panel Expertise (Mandatory):

Expert knowledge of Class A surface requirements, die spotting, and hand-finishing techniques for exterior panels.

• Technical Mastery:

Deep understanding of draw-die development, spring-back compensation, and material behavior in stampings.

• Metrology Proficiency:

Advanced ability to interpret GOM/3D scanning data and CMM reports to drive tooling adjustments.

• Leadership:

Proven ability to manage a large workforce of skilled tradespeople.

• Analytical Thinking:

Ability to bridge the gap between digital measurement data and physical toolroom intervention.

Education:

• Education:

National Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering + Tool & Die Making Trade.

• Experience:

Minimum 10 years in Automotive Stamping, with a mandatory minimum of 5 years focused specifically on Skin Panel/Class A surface production.

• Management Experience:

Proven track record of managing large technical teams (20+ people) within a high-volume toolroom or manufacturing engineering environment.

• Strategic Leadership & Management:

Lead the Tool & Die ME team in the development and execution of robust maintenance and engineering standards. Mentor and develop a high-performing team of engineers and technicians.

• Tooling Lifecycle & Performance:

Oversee the preventative and predictive maintenance programs for all die sets. Ensure tool reliability to meet production volume requirements.

• Dimensional Integrity:

Drive root-cause analysis for complex dimensional issues. Collaborate with Quality and Production teams to ensure final panels meet strict CP/CPK requirements.

• Safety & Compliance:

Ensure all toolroom activities and die modifications adhere to OHSAS and Ford’s safety standards.

• Continuous Improvement:

Implement Lean Manufacturing principles within the toolroom to reduce changeover times and improve die repair efficiency.

• Technical Problem Solving:

Act as the final technical authority on complex tooling issues affecting exterior panels. Lead root-cause analysis for surface quality trends identified in the Quality Loop (QLS).

• Asset & Standards Management:

Maintain the integrity of checking fixtures and die standards. Ensure all toolroom and metrology activities comply with Ford’s Quality Operating System (QOS) and 5S standards.

• Financial Management:

Control departmental budgets (OPEX), focusing on specialized tooling consumables and metrology equipment calibration/upgrades.