Production Control Manager

NTN Driveshaft, a world leader in constant velocity technology for the automotive industry, seeks an experienced Production Control Manager for our Columbus, Indiana operations. NTN currently has over 2000 employees in our Columbus operation, and customer demand for our product is growing rapidly. NTN Driveshaft manufactures Constant Velocity Joints (CVJs) for all major automotive companies. These customers include Honda, Ford, Toyota, GM, Chrysler, and other automotive OEMs.

As a Production Control Manager, you will lead the planning, scheduling, and material control functions, including Shipping and Receiving, that support our high-volume manufacturing operations. In this key leadership role, you will ensure on-time delivery of driveshaft products to our OEM customers while optimizing inventory levels and driving operational efficiency with Lean Manufacturing principles. This position plays a critical role in supporting NTN’s commitment to quality, delivery, and customer satisfaction as a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and manage the Master Production Schedule (MPS) to align production capacity with customer requirements and ensure timely fulfillment of OEM orders.
• Lead and oversee daily production scheduling activities across machining, assembly, heat treat, and finishing operations, ensuring alignment with customer demand and inventory targets.
• Actively manage and monitor Inventory accuracy to ensure accurate planning and forecasting.
• Maintain optimal inventory levels of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods to meet delivery targets while minimizing inventory carrying costs.
• Collaborate with the Purchasing, Logistics, Quality, and Engineering teams to ensure material availability, resolve production constraints, and support new product development and design changes.
• Monitor customer forecasts; communicate delivery schedules and changes across the organization to maintain transparency and responsiveness.
• Act as the primary liaison with OEM customers and internal stakeholders regarding production planning and order status.
• Lead Production Control team members, providing clear direction and performance feedback and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Utilize JD Edward ERP system to manage production schedules, material planning, forecasting, and reporting.
• Identify and implement lean manufacturing principles and process improvements to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and support NTN’s SQCCD (Safety, Quality, Compliance, Cost, and Delivery) objectives.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production schedule adherence, inventory turns and accuracy, and delivery performance.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 standards and customer-specific requirements.
• Support launch activities for new programs by coordinating production planning and launch readiness.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 7 years of Production Planning/Control experience in a high-volume automotive manufacturing facility, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of Tier 1 supplier requirements, including EDI, OEM release management, and JIT/JIS (Just-In-Time / Just-In-Sequence) delivery models.
• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems, preferably JD Edwards or similar.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Kanban pull systems, and experience implementing process improvements.
• Familiarity with IATF 16949 quality management systems.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal abilities with the capability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume automotive environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Primarily based in an office environment within the manufacturing plant.
• Requires frequent interaction on the production floor to coordinate activities and resolve issues.
• Occasional travel may be required to customer sites or other NTN manufacturing locations.