Area Manager General Assembly - Artisan Innovation Center (PPO)

Job Description The Global Artisan Innovation Center (GAIC) unites the former Pre-Production Operations (PPO) for Vehicles in Warren, the Pre-Production Operations for Global Propulsion Systems (GPS) in Pontiac, their counterpart facilities in China, Brazil and South Korea as well as the Cadillac Artisan Center – Home of the Cadillac Celestiq – and Tooling Equipment International (TEI) in Livonia. In this center of excellence, GM’s Global Manufacturing Engineering (ME) Team is challenging the limits of what is possible and embracing agility to reimagine how to build next generations of Vehicles and Propulsion Systems. Working cross-functionally, we bring together our most talented Skilled Trades alongside ME Engineers, Product Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, Program Management and many other areas of expertise. In this highly technical organization, we embrace new technologies like AI and Virtual Reality, build all GM Prototype Engines, Transmissions, Electric Drive Units, Pre-Production Cars and Trucks as well as hand build GM’s most luxurious production vehicles like the highly bespoke Cadillac Celestiq and other GM curated Limited Edition vehicles. Our diverse team combined with our flexible Machining, Tooling and Stamping (MTS) shop enables the Global Artisan Innovation Center to successfully compete with outside suppliers to support GM Engineering and GM Manufacturing with tasks, projects or builds that are not well-suited for high volume plants. What You will Do As GA Area Manager in the GAIC Vehicle plant in Warren, MI, you will lead our General Assembly organization located in Warren, MI - driving performance, expanding capability and shaping the culture of a highly skilled, highly technical organization that supports GM Engineering and GM Manufacturing. Operational Excellence & Business Performance · Develop and drive a safety-first culture throughout GA through SOT, SOP, Employee concern response, WPO compliance, Safety policy compliance, etc. · Lead strategic operational planning and day‑to‑day operations across all of the General Assembly related operations at the Warren site. · Delivery on all key performance metrics while ensuring safety, quality, schedule attainment, cost and people priorities are achieved consistently. · Shape and execute business strategies that strengthen traditional workstreams and accelerate growth in new, non-traditional capabilities. · Own financial performance including budgets, efficiency initiatives, contracts and cost‑optimization efforts. · Own and manage the GA L3/4/5 BPD, GMS and BIQ standards across GA operations. Strategic Leadership & Capability Growth · Support long‑term capital planning, future work capacity analysis, estimate manpower and future facility needs backed by business-case development. · Ensure all GA systems, processes, teams and equipment meet GAIC’s high standards of operational readiness. · Drive enterprise alignment by partnering cross‑functionally with Program management, ME, Maintenance, GAIC Body, Electrical, PE teams, etc. · Provide operational and technical leadership across the GA disciplines of pre-trim, trim, chassis, final, repair, sub-systems, fluids, quality and electrical. People Leadership & Culture · Lead a diverse, talented team of salaried employees and UAW Local 160 skilled trades with a focus on engagement, development and inclusion. · Build a “Workplace of Choice” environment rooted in safety, trust, accountability and continuous improvement. · Support career growth through coaching, development planning and capability‑building initiatives. · Set clear expectations and priorities while providing regular feedback, recognition and performance evaluation. · Exhibit and champion GM’s Winning Behaviors and drive change management for ne