Managing Director - North America (Mobility, Material Engineering Solutions, Fiber-Reinforced P[...] - German American Chambers of Commerce

Position: Managing Director (starting Q1 2025)

Location: Detroit Metropolitan Area, Michigan

Company Overview

The company is a global leader in material engineering and consulting services, headquartered in Southern Germany, with offices across several continents. Our client specializes in enabling the sustainable, cost-effective integration of fiber-reinforced polymers and composites into serial mass-produced mobility applications. From concept development to series production validation of polymer-intensive, multi-material designs, the company collaborates with OEMs and Tier suppliers within the automotive and mobility sectors to provide functional, lightweight solutions that go beyond weight reduction, driving sustainability and enhancing performance. Their approach focuses on creating value through advanced, sustainable solutions that improve the overall functionality and efficiency of mobility applications.

This position is based at the company's US subsidiary in the Detroit Metropolitan Area, MI with the focus on driving the company's growth and operations in North America.

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a Managing Director with an entrepreneurial mindset to lead the company’s growth and operations in the North American market. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, consultative skills and business acumen to manage key account relationships, drive new business development, and oversee operations. The Managing Director will work closely with a global team to deliver high-quality engineering solutions while leading and growing a strong, high-performing local team in the US, currently comprising a small team of up to five employees. This individual will also be responsible for leading the design of functional, structural multi-material systems for future sustainable e-mobility applications.

As the Managing Director Your Role encompasses:

Operations, Resources, Team Building, and Growth

• Carry P&L responsibility for the US subsidiary and lead all operational aspects of the business, ensuring efficient management of external service partners and subcontractors.

• Maintain and grow the customer base with strong support from both North America and the global team.

• Guide and develop a high-performance engineering and technical consulting team to achieve company goals.

• Drive recruiting and HR efforts to expand the team in alignment with project pipeline needs. Manage internal and external resources effectively (with internal and external partners).

• Take full ownership of existing customer projects and customer relationships, ensuring exceptional service and strong client satisfaction.

Business Development

• Develop new services and products tailored to the evolving needs and trends of the North American market.

• Identify opportunities to grow the business organically and inorganically.

• Build strategic partnerships and acquire key customer accounts to create long-term business

• Stay engaged with industry trends and market needs by working closely with industry experts and the global management team of Germany and the remaining global team. Share insights and collaborate on emerging opportunities.

Sales and Marketing

• Promote the company’s service offerings across North America’s automotive and aerospace industries, raising brand visibility and establishing the company as a leader in the market.

• Lead generation: Drive direct sales activities, networking events, and manage the sales pipeline to generate new leads.

• Promote the company brand through industry conferences (attend, present, moderate, exhibit), client events and participate in customer meetings to foster new business opportunities.

• Collaborate with the team to create detailed SoWs (Scope of Work).

• Negotiate contracts with customers and subcontracting partners.

Finances and Controlling

• Implement a monthly financial controlling process to ensure effective budgeting and resource allocation, with support from headquarters.

• Track and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) including P&L, productivity, cash flow, and revenue forecasts to ensure financial stability and performance.

• Take proactive steps to manage cash flow, ensuring adequate liquidity to support ongoing operations and growth.

What The Client Is Looking For:

• 7+ years of experience in design, materials, and manufacturing, with a proven track record in delivering results in these fields.

• 3+ years of experience managing development projects or equivalent responsibilities, demonstrating strong leadership and organizational skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (BSME), with a specialization in automotive, materials, or manufacturing engineering.

• In-depth experience with manufacturing processes, including forming, trimming, finishing, joining/fastening, and assembly.

• Strong understanding of manufacturing Bill of Process (BoP) and Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) KPIs.

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and how they impact product technical specifications in the automotive and mobility sectors.

• Awareness of the mechanical and functional requirements for automotive and mobility applications, typically outlined in subsystem technical specifications.

• Knowledge of design philosophies that guide product development, with sensitivity to production-based engineering principles.

• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to guide & motivate project teams and execute strategic goals.

• Proficiency in project management, product development, and material technology, with a comprehensive understanding of related manufacturing methods.

• Goal- and solution-oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the unique demands of a small, fast-paced organization.

• Travel: This position will primarily involve local travel within the region. Occasional one-to-two-day trips will be required for key account workshops and business development initiatives. In addition, the role will include travel to industry trade events both within North America and internationally, in alignment with the company’s marketing calendar. The Managing Director will also be expected to make annual visits to the German headquarters for training sessions and strategic workshops.