Kleber José Arantes

Manufacturing Manager with over 32 years of experience in the automotive industry. Experienced in managing production and maintenance in stamping, polymers, body shop, and final assembly areas. Solid knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Industrial KPI Management (OEE, MTTR, MTBF, Takt Time, and Scrap Rate), Industrial Maintenance (preventive, predictive, prescriptive maintenance, and asset reliability), Industrial Project Management, and Quality Tools (FMEA, PPAP, SPC, MSA, and 8D). I have an inspiring leadership profile with assertive communication, a results-oriented mindset, problem-solving skills, continuous improvement, adaptability, and resilience. These attributes allow me to develop high-performing, proactive teams capable of delivering sustainable results with safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost efficiency—always pursuing innovation. I managed the expansion of the stamping plant in Gravataí from 2 to 4 lines. We implemented the dies duplication project and successfully met the launch and high demand of the Onix 1. I also led the implementation of the plastic injection and sub-assembly plant, where we achieved a Flawless Launch for the Onix 2 project. I led the Blanking Line and Hi-Speed projects in São Caetano do Sul–SP, enabling the on-time launches of the Tracker and Montana while meeting the ramp-up curve. I managed the polymer paint start-up and the automation of 3 body shop cells to support the launch and demand of the Montana. We carried out a productivity project with a cross-functional team in General Assembly and achieved a 7% reduction in headcount. I hold a Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering and a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Mechanical Engineering, along with certifications in Operational Excellence, Leadership 4.0, Evolutionary Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and Design Thinking.