PREM KUMAR
Manufacturing Director
Penang
Summary
Forward-thinking and execution-driven Manufacturing Director with 19+ years of progressive leadership experience overseeing high-volume, multi-site manufacturing operations in semiconductor and high-technology environments. Proven success driving operational efficiency, Lean and Six Sigma transformations, cost optimization, automation, and end-to-end manufacturing excellence. Expert in leading cross-functional teams across production, engineering, quality, supply chain, and planning to deliver world-class safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance. MBA-qualified leader with a strong strategic and financial mindset.
Manufacturing professional prepared for dynamic challenges in production management. Expertise in streamlining operations and enhancing productivity through strategic planning and process optimization. Focused on fostering team collaboration and driving results with adaptability and reliability. Known for problem-solving skills and effective leadership in high-pressure environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
5
5
Certifications
7
7
Languages
Work History
Manufacturing Director
HOYA ELECTRONICS PTE. LTD.
03.2018 - Current
- Lead high-volume, multi-site manufacturing operations, ensuring standardized best-in-class production practices across facilities.
- Develop and execute long-term operational strategies focused on efficiency, quality, cost reduction, scalability, and output reliability.
- Oversee end-to-end manufacturing operations, including production planning, inventory management, workflow optimization, engineering support, and quality compliance.
- Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement programs, reducing process variation and achieving a 4,000 DPPM defect reduction.
- Drive strategic cost optimization initiatives, improving yield and resource utilization while maintaining customer delivery commitments.
- Establish and govern world-class safety, regulatory, environmental sustainability, and manufacturing KPI frameworks.
- Partner with supply chain, engineering, procurement, and quality teams to ensure seamless product flow and 95–100% on-time delivery.
- Lead manufacturing automation, digital reporting, and data-driven decision-making initiatives.
- Spearhead new plant construction, capacity expansion, and production ramp-ups.
- Manage production budgets, capital investments, and workforce planning.
- Represent manufacturing operations in executive reviews, cross-regional operational councils, and transformation committees.
Senior Manufacturing Manager
INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES
10.2011 - 03.2018
- Managed supply chain and manufacturing operations for wafer test and backend production.
- Led cross-functional teams in manufacturing, demand planning, and production control.
- Achieved 100% delivery performance during critical product ramp-ups.
- Optimized production scheduling to improve throughput, cycle time, and capacity utilization.
- Drove continuous improvement initiatives resulting in enhanced operational efficiency and cost control.
Manufacturing Manager
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS
07.2006 - 09.2011
- Supervised quality inspectors and production operators.
- Optimized production schedules based on demand, capacity, and material availability.
- Implemented SAP ERP systems, improving stock control and reducing operational errors.
- Improved cycle time and cost efficiency through machine dedication and supplier negotiations.
- Introduced automated inventory checks and optimized production layouts.
Education
Dual MBA - General Management, Innovation and Leadership
Perdana University
MalaysiaBachelor of Science (Hons) - Financial Management & Management
Upper Iowa University
USASkills
SAP ERP / MRP
Accomplishments
- Troubleshooting - Adjusted controls or stopped machines and opened holding devices to correct problems.
Certification
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSC)
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Multi-Site Manufacturing Operations Leadership
- High-Volume Production Management
- Operational Strategy & Manufacturing Transformation
- Lean Manufacturing & Six Sigma (Black Belt)
- Continuous Improvement & Variance Reduction
- Cost Reduction, Yield Improvement & Productivity
- End-to-End Manufacturing (Planning, Workflow, Quality)
- Safety, Regulatory & Environmental Compliance
- Supply Chain, Inventory & Production Planning
- Manufacturing Automation & Digital Integration
- ERP / MRP / SAP Systems & Data-Driven Management
- Capital Investment & Budget Management
- Cross-Functional & Executive Leadership
- Talent Development & High-Performance Culture Building
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Willing to Travel: Yes
- Willing to Relocate: Yes
- Driving License: Yes
- Notice Period: 2 Months
- Expected Salary: Negotiable
Timeline
Manufacturing Director
HOYA ELECTRONICS PTE. LTD.
03.2018 - Current
Senior Manufacturing Manager
INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES
10.2011 - 03.2018
Manufacturing Manager
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS
07.2006 - 09.2011
Bachelor of Science (Hons) - Financial Management & Management
Upper Iowa University
Dual MBA - General Management, Innovation and Leadership
Perdana University