Toolroom Manager

Job description

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

Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications

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.