• Define and execute the long-term Advanced Manufacturing & Automation strategy aligned with company objectives for scale, quality, and innovation. • Establish a multi-year technology roadmap for factory automation, digital manufacturing systems, and continuous improvement initiatives. • Partner with executive leadership to identify and prioritize key investments in automation, equipment, and process capabilities. • Drive the evolution of Dandy’s manufacturing operations toward world-class OEE, yield, and reliability benchmarks. • Act as the primary interface between Engineering, Operations, Product, and Quality teams for all advanced manufacturing initiatives. • Translate business and product needs into technical manufacturing strategies that balance innovation, scalability, and cost efficiency. • Oversee cross-functional project governance — driving alignment, risk mitigation, and timely execution across global teams. • Lead capital planning, program prioritization, and vendor strategy to ensure optimal ROI on manufacturing automation programs. • Direct the design, validation, and integration of new automation systems and manufacturing technologies into Dandy’s factories. • Oversee the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (AME) team, responsible for process innovation, equipment development, and lifecycle management. • Champion the adoption of data-driven manufacturing — integrating Industry 4.0 principles (IoT, predictive analytics, MES integration, digital twins). • Guide system design reviews, FAT/SAT protocols, and production qualification of new automation lines. • Build and mentor a world-class team of automation engineers, program managers, and manufacturing leaders. • Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement within the AME organization. • Represent the AME function in executive reviews, supplier negotiations, and industry forums.