Automotive & Aerospace
13 Jul
General Manager Centre of Excellence
Job Title: General Manager – Center of Excellence, Global Shared Services Location: Pune, India (On-site leadership role) Reports To: President / Chief Operating OAicer (COO) Position Summary We are looking for a battle-tested General Manager to build, lead, and scale our new Center of Excellence (CoE) and Global Shared Services hub in Pune, India. This is a highimpact, hands-on leadership role responsible for establishing and growing a world-class back-oAice operation that delivers global support across multiple functions including Supply Chain (Procurement, Customer Solutions, Planning), HR Recruiting, Finance, IT, Engineering, Data Governance, and other consolidation activities. This is a classic “jack of all trades, master of none” GM position — a proven operator who has successfully built and scaled shared services or captive centers from the ground up more than once. You will manage a multi-shift, 24/7 operation supporting multiple time zones, drive operational excellence, ensure high-quality delivery, and continuously expand the scope and scale of services. The role demands strong execution skills, cross-functional versatility, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Key Responsibilities Build the Shared Services Center from the ground up — including site identification and setup, talent acquisition, process design, technology implementation, and governance frameworks. Lead, scale, and optimize global back-oAice operations covering data entry, transaction processing, consolidation, reporting, and support services across Supply Chain, Procurement, Customer Solutions, Planning, HR Recruiting, Finance, IT, Engineering, and Data Governance. Design and implement robust processes, SLAs, KPIs, and quality standards to deliver consistent, high-performance services to global business units. Manage a multi-shift operation (including night shifts) to provide seamless support across all time zones (Americas, EMEA, APAC). Drive continuous improvement, automation, digital transformation, and Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to enhance eAiciency, reduce costs, and improve service quality. Build and mentor a large, diverse, high-performing team in a multi-cultural environment; foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and employee engagement. Partner closely with global functional leaders and stakeholders to understand needs, align priorities, and expand the scope of shared services. Ensure strict compliance with data security, privacy (GDPR, etc.), internal controls, and regulatory requirements. Manage P&L elements, budgeting, resource planning, and cost optimization for the Shared Services Center. Act as the senior on-site leader representing the Center of Excellence with global leadership. Qualifications & Experience Minimum 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in shared services, captive centers, BPO, or global business services operations. Proven track record of building and scaling shared services operations from the ground up — ideally having done this successfully more than once. Strong cross-functional exposure across Supply Chain, Procurement, Finance, HR, IT, or Engineering support functions. Experience managing large, multi-shift, multi-time-zone operations (500+ FTE or equivalent scale preferred). Bachelor’s degree in business, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field required; MBA or advanced degree preferred. Multilingual – Fluency in English is mandatory. Spanish language proficiency is a strong plus (additional languages such as Hindi, Marathi, German, or Mandarin are advantageous). Required Skills & Competencies Hands-on “get it done” leadership style with the ability to roll up sleeves and execute while building scalable systems. Escalation and communication skills will be paramouunt Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills across diAerent cultures and seniority levels. Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and driving cost eAiciencies. Deep knowledge of process excellence, automation (RPA), data analytics, and digital tools, AI. Outstanding people leadership and talent development capabilities in a high-growth environment. Ability to thrive in ambiguity and rapidly evolving priorities. Willingness to work flexible hours to support global time zones as needed. What We OAer Competitive compensation package with attractive base, performance bonus, and benefits Opportunity to build and own a strategic global capability from inception Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, and wellness programs Exposure to senior leadership (direct reporting to President/COO) and significant career growth potential Dynamic, entrepreneurial work environment in a rapidly expanding organization This is a rare opportunity for a proven builder and operator to create a high-performing Global Shared Services Center that becomes a true competitive advantage for the company.