Production Operations Manager (fixed term contract) (all genders)

About tonies:

tonies is the world’s leading interactive audio platform for children, with over 12 million Tonieboxes and 165 million Tonies sold globally. Our intuitive, screen-free system empowers children to learn and play independently in a safe and engaging way.
With a presence in over 100 countries and a diverse portfolio of ~1,500 Tonies across multiple languages, we continue to redefine how children experience storytelling and learning. Since our IPO in 2021, our global team of 630+ colleagues is united by a shared mission: shaping the future of play, learning, and imagination.

You as part of tonies:

As a Production Operations Manager, you are responsible for managing and executing end-to-end production operations, ensuring efficient, stable, and high-quality manufacturing performance.
You work closely with suppliers and collaborate with internal stakeholders, including Quality, Supply Chain, Global Procurement, Production Realization, and Production Excellence, to drive operational alignment and successful delivery of production targets. You support the implementation of Lean practices and continuous improvement initiatives, helping to ensure that operational standards are consistently maintained and optimized across our global network.
Given the close collaboration with our suppliers in Asia, this role requires regular business trips per year to Asia to visit supplier sites, and the ability to respond quickly to urgent production-related requests.

Your tasks and responsibilities will include:

• Oversee production operations, ensuring operational efficiency, quality, and stability
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to maintain production readiness and resolve operational issues
• Act as an on-the-ground point of contact during supplier visits in Asia, and respond promptly to production-critical issues as they arise
• Support Lean practices and continuous improvement initiatives across the production environment
• Monitor and optimize production performance, workflow, manpower, materials, and equipment utilization
• Track and act upon operational KPIs to maintain throughput, reduce waste, and ensure reliability
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards

What we are looking for:

• University degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Production Technology, or a related field; an engineering background is preferred
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in production operations, manufacturing, or shopfloor management
• Hands-on experience with production processes, workflow optimization, and operational KPIs
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement concepts (supportive role)
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and coordination skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate with suppliers
• Excellent communication skills in English and availability to regularly travel internationally (3/4 times a year)
• Ability to react quickly and reliably to time-sensitive production requests
• Proficiency with Jira and Confluence, and familiarity with Google Workspace tools (e.g., Google Docs, Sheets)

What Sets You Apart

• Strong operational focus with a hands-on, pragmatic approach
• Ability to manage multiple production priorities simultaneously
• Execution-oriented mindset with end-to-end thinking
• Collaborative, structured, and solution-driven
• Commitment to delivering stable, high-performance production
• Comfortable working across time zones and cultures, with prior experience engaging Asian suppliers a plus

Why tonies?

● Global Teamwork: We collaborate across departmental and country borders. You’ll be part of a truly international community where every voice is heard.
● Come as you are: This applies to the dress code and everything else. We believe you give your best when you feel truly comfortable being yourself.
● Competitive Package: We offer a competitive salary and a range of comprehensive benefits tailored to your specific location, which we’ll share during the recruiting process.
● Collaboration & Community: We’re big on "we." You’ll join a team that values connection and celebrates wins together, no matter the time zone.
● Continuous Learning: Benefit from internal/external training and an individual learning budget to keep your skills as sharp as a Tonie’s ears.
● Tonie Discounts: Enjoy attractive discounts on our entire range of products. You’ll quickly become the favorite guest at every birthday party!
● Rest & Recharge: Great work requires a clear head. You’ll enjoy generous paid time off to ensure you have plenty of time for your own stories.

Good to know:

As part of our principles, we are committed to supporting inclusion and diversity at tonies. We actively celebrate our colleagues’ different abilities, ethnicities, faith and gender. Everyone is welcome and supported in their development at all stages in their journey with us.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Vanessa Hubert-Man
Talent Acquisition Manager