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Role Overview
Mateus is seeking an experienced and hands-on Head of Production & Sourcing to strategically develop, secure, and scale our global production capabilities. This role is pivotal in ensuring the continued growth of our handcrafted ceramic collections, operating with high autonomy to increase production capacity by 50% and onboard new international manufacturing partners, all while preserving the authentic, unique character and quality of our pieces.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute Mateus ' global production and sourcing strategy, aligning with the company's growth objectives.
Scale existing collection capacity by 50% through continuous process optimization and strategic expansion of our partner network.
Identify, evaluate, and successfully onboard 2-3 new qualified international manufacturing partners globally within the first year.
Cultivate and strengthen long-term relationships with existing suppliers, fostering collaboration and efficiency.
Work directly on factory floors with manufacturing partners to resolve production bottlenecks and optimize manual processes such as hand-painting, hand-glazing, and hand-finishing.
Lead comprehensive factory assessments, production trials, supplier negotiations, and manage lead times, Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), and costing.
Ensure consistent quality assurance and uphold Mateus ' high standards as production volumes increase.
Build a resilient, diversified, and sustainable global supply chain that supports future growth and innovation.
What We’re Looking For (Skills & Requirements)
Prior Experience
Senior background in production management, strategic sourcing, and supply chain within craftsmanship-led, design-driven industries (e.g., ceramics, tableware, homeware, furniture, glass).
Proven experience in identifying, evaluating, and successfully onboarding international manufacturing partners.
Experience working autonomously as a standalone lead while effectively collaborating with founders and leadership teams in a family-owned business environment.
Specific Knowledge Areas
Deep understanding of production capacity planning, costing methodologies, quality control processes, and supplier contract negotiations.
Familiarity with international manufacturing regulations and best practices.
Strong knowledge of ceramic production processes is a significant advantage.
Skills & Abilities
Commercially minded with a strong entrepreneurial drive.
Hands-on approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
Ability to manage complex projects and multiple priorities simultaneously.
Other
Willingness to travel internationally extensively for factory visits, onboarding new partners, and overseeing production trials.
