AQUINOS is a leading European manufacturer of branded and private-label bedding and upholstery products.
Our group is Portugal based and employs more than 5,000 people across 20 sites throughout Europe. As AQUINOS Bedding, we are best known for our products under well-known brand names with strong local heritage, such as BEKA, Lattoflex, Swissflex, Schlaraffia, Sembella, and Superba. In Belgium (Hulshout and Geraardsbergen), we produce mattresses and slatted bases, with a team of approximately 200 colleagues.
Aquinos Bedding is looking for a Plant Manager for the Hulshout site.
As the Plant Manager, you are responsible for the entire Hulshout site, including all primary and secondary processes. You will be supported by a core team responsible for daily oversight of the supply chain, HSE, and finance. In addition to leading this core team, you will also act as the production manager, supported by production supervisors who ensure smooth daily operations. In short, you play a crucial role in monitoring operational performance, achieving production and quality targets, and maintaining productivity levels. You report to the Regional Operations General Manager for the Benelux, who acts as your point of contact with the headquarters in Portugal.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Production Management

• Responsible for daily operations in the factory, including planning and allocation of resources to meet production requirements.
• Monitor production KPIs and lead times to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of processes.
• Coordinate various departments, such as production, maintenance, quality, and logistics, to ensure a smooth workflow.

2. Personnel Management

• Lead, coach, and develop the production team.
• Create a safe and positive work environment where employees feel involved and valued.
• Oversee staffing and capacity planning to ensure flexibility and productivity.

3. Quality and Safety Management

• Supervise adherence to safety standards and regulations in the workplace to create a safe work environment.
• Implement and maintain quality standards and regularly monitor product quality to meet customer requirements.
• Collaborate with the quality team to implement corrective measures in case of deviations in production processes.

4. Optimization and Improvement Projects

• Initiate and support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Conduct analyses and audits to identify areas for improvement and implement operational improvements.
• Implement new processes and technologies as necessary to enhance productivity and quality.

5. Reporting and Communication

• Regularly report to the management on operational performance, including production output, quality metrics, and financial data.
• Prepare reports and KPI overviews for management and provide feedback on strategic developments.
• Act as a link between management and the production floor to ensure effective communication.

6. Site Management and Local Leadership

• Lead the Hulshout site, with the local management team reporting directly to you, taking full responsibility for the entire Hulshout site.
• Manage the local budget of the site, working closely with the Benelux General Manager. Monitor costs and focus on optimizing available resources.
• Play a key role in shaping and implementing the site’s strategic goals, ensuring alignment with Aquinos Bedding’s broader vision.

Desired Qualifications and Competencies:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant technical or industrial field, such as mechanical engineering or production management.
• At least 5-7 years of experience in a leadership role within a production environment, preferably in the bedding or furniture industry.
• Strong knowledge of production management, quality control, and process improvement methods.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to effectively motivate and develop teams.
• Good analytical skills, with the ability to interpret KPIs and make strategic decisions.
• Good communication skills in Dutch and English.
• Hands-on mentality and solution-oriented thinking.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent contract
Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person