Founding Operations & Supply Chain Manager

About Swiftpoint

Swiftpoint is a New Zealand-based technology firm specializing in the design and global distribution of innovative computer peripherals. Our products serve a diverse clientele, including gamers, engineers, creators, enterprise users, and professionals across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. We are establishing a new Innovation, Operations, and Manufacturing Hub in the Philippines to bolster product assembly, warehousing, logistics, supplier development, engineering collaboration, and future manufacturing endeavors.

We are seeking a highly capable individual with a talent for building, organizing, and problem-solving to be among the initial members of our Philippine team. This role offers the chance to build Swiftpoint Philippines from its inception, ideal for someone who thrives on transforming concepts into tangible realities. While a background in operations, manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, logistics, or technical project management is beneficial, the most crucial attribute is the ability to take initiative, resolve challenges, and implement effective systems.

This is a unique opportunity to collaborate directly with senior leadership and significantly influence the future trajectory of Swiftpoint's global supply chain and manufacturing capabilities.

About The Role

This position is distinct from a conventional operations role. We are not looking for someone to manage existing infrastructure but rather someone who excels at building new operations from the ground up. Initially, Swiftpoint Philippines will focus on assembly, logistics, supplier development, and operational support. The selected candidate will be instrumental in converting an empty facility into a fully operational hub capable of delivering world-class products globally.

Success demands a blend of strategic foresight and hands-on execution. You must be adept at formulating plans and equally willing to actively participate in their implementation. The role involves establishing Swiftpoint’s Philippine operations, encompassing facility selection, supplier cultivation, operational setup, team recruitment, quality assurance systems, inventory management, and long-term manufacturing growth strategies. Initially, the focus will be on setting up the operation, which will evolve into leading and scaling the Philippine team as production volumes increase. As the operation expands, this role will transition into a senior leadership position, contributing to the strategic direction of Swiftpoint's long-term presence in the Philippines.

Collaboration with Swiftpoint teams and suppliers internationally will be a regular aspect of this role. Occasional international travel to New Zealand, China, and various supplier locations throughout Asia may be required.

Who Thrives at Swiftpoint?

Swiftpoint operates as a focused, entrepreneurial technology company, distinct from large corporations with extensive management layers. Our team members are individuals who prefer building over inheriting, solving problems over escalating them, and finding pragmatic solutions over waiting for ideal conditions. This role is best suited for a resourceful, hands-on individual eager to contribute to creating something substantial from scratch. In return, you will have the chance to make a significant impact, work closely with company leadership, and help shape the future of Swiftpoint's Philippine operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Facility Establishment: Identify and assess potential locations for Swiftpoint’s Philippine operations, assist in site selection, lease negotiations, and facility setup. Design efficient workflows for warehousing, assembly, and testing. Coordinate equipment procurement and installation, develop operational processes and procedures for launch, and create practical, scalable systems. Establish quality, inventory, and workflow disciplines from the outset and ensure operational readiness for production.
• Operations & Production: Supervise daily assembly, testing, and logistics activities. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Monitor production output, quality, and efficiency, and implement continuous improvement initiatives to ensure products meet Swiftpoint's quality standards.
• Inventory & Logistics: Manage inventory and stock control systems, coordinate inbound and outbound shipments, and liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers. Maintain inventory accuracy and reporting, ensuring efficient material flow throughout the operation.
• Team Building & Leadership: Recruit, train, and develop assembly and operations personnel. Foster a positive, high-performance culture emphasizing ownership, quality, and continuous improvement. Establish training systems and quality standards, leading by example to shape the operating culture of Swiftpoint Philippines. Provide coaching, leadership, and performance management.
• Strategic Projects: Contribute to the development of Swiftpoint’s long-term Philippine manufacturing strategy and support global supply chain diversification. Identify opportunities for cost reduction, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency. Act as a key local representative for Swiftpoint when engaging with suppliers, service providers, government agencies, and business partners. Help shape the long-term vision for Swiftpoint Philippines as the operation grows and participate in future manufacturing and expansion initiatives.

What We’re Looking For

• Essential Skills: Strong English communication abilities, proven experience in building or improving systems, processes, operations, or teams. Excellent organizational and problem-solving capabilities, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work autonomously and take ownership. Comfort in making decisions with incomplete information and proficiency in computer applications, including Excel. Adaptability to a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
• Desirable Experience: Backgrounds in operations, manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, sourcing, or logistics. Experience in electronics manufacturing, knowledge of PCB or PCBA production, and expertise in supplier sourcing and qualification. A technical or engineering foundation, experience in warehouse or inventory management, and familiarity with Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies. Experience working with international companies and comfort with occasional international travel for supplier visits, training, audits, and meetings.

Personal Attributes

• A passion for building operations from the ground up.
• A strong sense of ownership and commitment to follow-through.
• The ability to translate abstract ideas into functional, practical systems.
• Resourcefulness in finding solutions to challenges.
• A balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.
• Effective cross-cultural communication skills.
• High standards for personal and team performance.
• Exceptional organizational skills and reliability.
• A proactive approach to learning and tackling unfamiliar problems.
• A desire to contribute to long-term, meaningful company growth.

Why Join Swiftpoint?

• Be part of establishing Swiftpoint Philippines from its inception.
• Gain direct access to company leadership.
• Benefit from significant career advancement opportunities.
• Obtain exposure to international manufacturing and supply chains.
• Influence supplier and manufacturing strategies.
• Shape systems, culture, and processes rather than inheriting them.
• Opportunities for international travel and collaboration with global teams and suppliers.
• Make a tangible impact on the company's direction.
• Have meaningful input into the evolution of the operation as it scales.
• Secure a long-term role within a growing global technology company.

Location

Mandaue / Lapu-Lapu Area, Cebu, Philippines. Cebu was selected for its robust talent pool, international accessibility, quality of life, and burgeoning business environment, supporting a balanced professional and personal life.

Application Requirements

Submit a resume/CV, a cover letter detailing relevant experience, examples of led operational, sourcing, manufacturing, or supply chain projects, current salary, and expected salary.

Application Question

Scenario: Swiftpoint has leased a facility and aims to commence electronic product assembly within six months. You have a building, a limited initial budget, a small team, product designs, assembly instructions, and incoming component shipments. Outline your first 90-day plan, detailing how you would establish the facility, recruit and train staff, create operational processes, set up inventory and logistics, identify and qualify local suppliers, establish quality standards, and prepare the operation for production.