Jeffrey Summers
Kokomo,IN
Summary
Automotive manufacturing leader at Stellantis with 10+ years of experience leading high-volume production operations. Proven track record launching complex programs, improving safety and quality KPIs, and driving cost reduction through lean manufacturing. Experienced in leading 100+ employees in union environments and optimizing plant performance. Seeking Operations or Plant Manager role to drive operational excellence and profitability.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Unit Leader
Stellantis
Kokomo, Indiana
10.2016 - 03.2026
- Led launch of multiple production programs (2022–2024), including Gen4 880RE ($254M), achieving on-time startup and full production readiness
- Directed daily operations for high-volume assembly and machining lines, supervising 100+ employees across multiple shifts
- Enhanced productivity and minimized downtime through implementation of lean manufacturing, standardized work, and targeted process improvements
- Reduced scrap and rework costs through targeted continuous improvement and root cause analysis initiatives
- Achieved safety, quality, delivery, and cost KPIs in a union manufacturing environment through effective oversight and strategic management
- Collaborated cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, and supply chain to resolve production constraints
- Cultivated frontline leadership by providing coaching in SPW and Shop Floor Management (SFM) methodologies
Unit Leader
Stellantis
Kokomo, Indiana
01.2014 - 10.2016
- Led team in daily operations and workflow management.
- Coordinated production schedules to meet project timelines.
- Trained new employees on safety protocols and job responsibilities.
Superintendent
Crider & Crider, Inc.
Bloomington , IN
03.2012 - 07.2013
- US 31 & Toby Pike Interchange Improvements
Foreman
Berns Construction Co., LLC
Indianapolis, Indiana
03.2010 - 12.2011
- Supervised mass excavation and aggregate base installation for concrete paving, ensuring proper grading and structural integrity for project success
Superintendent
Lee & Ryan Environmental
Greenfield, IN
06.2009 - 03.2010
- Continental Steel Superfund Site, Kokomo, IN
- Backfill Markland Quarry Site with 300,000CYS of clean fill.
Superintendent
HIS Constructors
Indianapolis, Indiana
07.2008 - 06.2009
- Managed Hamilton County structure replacement project, ensuring compliance with safety standards and timelines.
- IB-30086, INDOT Howard County
Superintendent
E&B Paving, Inc.
Kokomo, Indiana
01.2003 - 04.2008
- Managed all projects & crews (paving, concrete, grading, pipe, & site work) for the Kokomo, Peru, and Logansport Area
- INDOT Projects
- Howard County Paving
- City of Kokomo Paving and various projects
- City of Peru Paving
- Coordinated construction at Grissom AFB and local airports
Superintendent
Milestone Contracting
West Lafayette, Indiana
06.1992 - 01.2003
- Oversaw project execution as superintendent, ensuring alignment with project goals and timelines.
- Coordinated project planning and logistics, facilitating smooth workflow and collaboration among teams.
- Scheduling/Multiple crews
- Administrative responsibilities/Understanding of contracts & daily reporting
Education
Bachelor of Science - Construction Management
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN05-1992
Skills
- Plant & Operations Leadership
- P&L and Cost Control
- Lean Manufacturing / 5S / Kaizen
- KPI Management (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Morale)
- Continuous Improvement & Root Cause Analysis
- Production Planning & Capacity Optimization
- Launch Management & Process Standardization
- Maintenance Coordination & Downtime Reduction
- Cross-Functional Leadership (Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain)
- Workforce Development & Union Environment Leadership
Timeline
Business Unit Leader
Stellantis
10.2016 - 03.2026
Unit Leader
Stellantis
01.2014 - 10.2016
Superintendent
Crider & Crider, Inc.
03.2012 - 07.2013
Foreman
Berns Construction Co., LLC
03.2010 - 12.2011
Superintendent
Lee & Ryan Environmental
06.2009 - 03.2010
Superintendent
HIS Constructors
07.2008 - 06.2009
Superintendent
E&B Paving, Inc.
01.2003 - 04.2008
Superintendent
Milestone Contracting
06.1992 - 01.2003
Bachelor of Science - Construction Management
Purdue University