Area Manager

Description

GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT COMPANY SPONSORSHIP, ENTRY OF GM AS THE IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER OF RECORD ON A GOVERNMENT FORM, AND ANY WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIRING A WRITTEN SUBMISSION OR OTHER IMMIGRATION SUPPORT FROM THE COMPANY (e.g., H-1B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.).

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

Onsite: This role is categorized as onsite. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Orion, MI on a full-time basis.

The Role:
Unlike a typical area manager role, specifically to Orion Assembly, this GA Area Manager role will provide strategic and technical leadership across all major GA areas, including automated and manual torque operations, innovative conveyance systems such as door inverted friction drive, seat and IP installs, marriage stations, frame turnover, and the largest deployment of AMRs in a GM launch. Their leadership ensures first-time integration of these complex systems, many of which are new to North America. This role also requires extensive cross-vendor coordination, involving GM's strategic suppliers.

This individual will also help architect and execute the critical path for GA launch, influencing the timing and interlock of key systems, processes, and cross-departmental coordination. The role's influence spans well beyond execution-it shapes the very foundation of a successful start-of-regular-production.

The candidate identified for this role is exceptionally suited to the position, offering not only launch experience and advanced controls knowledge, but also a proven ability to foster strong UAW collaboration, driving both cultural alignment and operational effectiveness.

As a senior leader within General Assembly, the Area Manager owns a distinct business area and plays a key role in shaping and executing operational strategies. This role requires deep organizational knowledge, versatile management experience, and the ability to lead through influence and example. The Area Manager is accountable for driving performance, developing talent, and ensuring alignment with GM's strategic goals and cultural values. Due to the level of system complexity and automation, this person will be most successful coming from a technical background.

What You'll Do:

• Develop and drive a safety-first culture throughout the plant.
• Manage day-to-day operations and coordinate activities across departments.
• Lead the Electrical Team, Continuous Improvement Team, and Maintenance Team in GA
• Coach, train, and evaluate salaried people leaders to achieve performance goals.
• Lead GMS implementation and serve as the principal GMS lead for regional activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and maintain strong relationships with other plants and external customers.
• Participate in the selection and development of salaried leadership.
• Maintain control systems, budgets, and performance monitoring tools.
• Champion a "Workplace of Choice" environment and uphold GM's values and labor agreements.

• 10+ years of progressive leadership in automotive launch or high-volume manufacturing
• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Manufacturing, or related discipline; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• Proven experience managing large teams in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence across levels.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing operations, safety standards, and lean principles.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic and operational plans.
• Experience with budget management and performance metrics.
• Familiarity with labor agreements and corporate compliance standards.

• Experience leading General Assembly operations within GM or a similar OEM.
• Expertise in GM's Global Manufacturing System (GMS).
• Track record of driving cultural transformation and employee engagement.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead large-scale change initiatives and develop high-performing teams.