Chodov Factory Manager

The Lubrication Lifetime Solutions Business Unit is responsible for the development, design and manufacturing of lubrication-related systems, tools and equipment. The Business Unit operates in a large number of countries and markets, with a customer portfolio that includes many major OE manufacturers of automotive and industrial products, as well as distribution channel partners. 

Are you looking for a dynamic environment and open to new ideas and changes? Do you thrive when interacting with colleagues and customers across the world? Would you like to be part of shaping our operations and building a high-performing factory and team? 

Then you could be our next…

Factory Manager, Chodov
Lubrication Lifetime Solutions

The Lubrication Lifetime Solutions factory in Chodov was founded in 1995 and is today the main factory in Europe for Lubrication Lifetime Solutions EMEA, with a team of ~400 people. Installed operations are ranging from machining, assemblies, testing and warehousing. The factory is located in the Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad) area, in the western part of Czech Republic.

In this position, your mission will be to lead the Lubrication factory in Chodov toward excellence in safety, quality, delivery, profitability, competitiveness and employee development - while aligning with the SKF and Lubrication Lifetime Solutions Business Unit goals and strategies.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast paced environment, enjoys solving problems on the fly, and knows how to bring out the best in a diverse team.

What you’ll do
•    Lead the factory towards operational excellence in efficiency, delivery performance, cost competitiveness and employee experience, with the objective of serving customers every day through sustainable and profitable processes.
•    Prepare and adapt the factory to changing market demands by fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and change - ensuring long-term competitiveness and sustainability.
•    Oversee all factory operations, including production planning, workflow, quality control, and maintenance, while monitoring performance metrics and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards.
•    Lead the Lubrication EMA distribution hub, ensuring efficient processes that deliver excellent service for our customers.
•    Implement the SKF Production System and deploy lean and six sigma tools to eliminate waste, improve efficiency and flow, identify operational bottlenecks and implement solutions that improve productivity and reduce downtime. 
•    Foster and promote employee engagement and a strong team spirit by motivating and developing team members for the business success - both in your unit and across the teams you collaborate with locally or internationally.
•    Ensure that all SKF and legal requirements concerning environment, health and safety are met.

What you bring
•    A University degree, preferably in Engineering, with a proven track record and extensive experience in a leadership position within manufacturing or production management.
•    Strong customer focus and results orientation, with solid financial understanding and strong business acumen.
•    A solid understanding of lean manufacturing, quality systems, and safety practices, with successful experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing or similar methodologies.
•    A solution and performance-oriented mindset with solid problem solving abilities and a calm, pragmatic approach to challenges, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
•    An open mind with a high level of energy, strong communication skills and comfort working cross functionally, with fluency in Czech and English (verbally and written).
We are looking for someone with strong leadership capabilities and proven experience in working collaboratively, motivating and developing people and coordinating cross-functional teams. 

At SKF we are committed to creating a diverse environment, and we firmly believe that a diverse workforce is essential for our continued success. Therefore, we only focus on your experience, skills, and potential. Come as you are – just be yourself. #weareSKF

Why join us 
You’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of our operations, influence key decisions, and build a high performing team. We offer growth opportunities, a diverse environment where no day looks the same, and a workplace where your ideas genuinely matter.

Additional information
This position is located in Chodov, Czech Republic, and reports to the Head of Lubrication Sales & Operations EMEA.

Is this you?
If the answer is “Yes!”, submit your application with CV and cover letter in English no later than February 23rd, 2026. 

We will screen candidates continuously throughout the application period, so make sure to submit your application as soon as possible! 

At SKF, we are committed to promoting fairness and inclusivity throughout our recruitment process. To achieve this, we may include assessments and verify the information in your application in compliance with country-specific laws and regulations.