First Line Manager Maintenance
Location: Sint-Niklaas Distribution Centre and Offices
Company: VF Corporation - The Global fashion and apparel organisation
At VF, we power iconic lifestyle brands such as The North Face, Timberland, Vans, Eastpak, Kipling and more. Our Distribution Centre in Sint Niklaas is one of the most advanced and automated in Europe, supporting millions of consumers every year.
Join our team of passionate 750+ colleagues in Belgium and help us keep our operations running smoothly.
Let'stalk about the role
As Maintenance First Line Manager, you lead a team of technicians, engineers and subcontractors to ensure the reliability of our automated systems.
You plan and coordinate daily maintenance activities and solve complex issues within our ASRS (Automated Storage & Retrieval System).
Together with the Head of Maintenance & Facility, you will work on innovation and continuous improvement, playing a key role as well in promoting a safe and environmentally responsible workplace across the site.
How you will make a difference
* Lead daily maintenance activities, making sure all preventive and corrective work on mechanical and electrical systems is completed safely and on time.
* Support operators, technicians and subcontractors by helping them solve technical issues and follow the maintenance plan.
* Guide and motivate your team, promoting good communication and teamwork across the site.
* Take part in scheduled maintenance tasks, such as overhauls and improvement projects, following the agreed planning and standards.
* Develop your team's skills, helping them grow and build their careers within VF.
* Use spare parts and resources efficiently to keep equipment running reliably and maintain high site performance.
* Prepare work permits and coordinate subcontractors involved in maintenance activities.
* Handle the administrative follow‑up of all technical work and report updates to the Maintenance & Facility Manager.
* Create clear procedures, instructions, manuals and dashboards that support daily operations and track team performance.
Skills for Success
Must have
* Experience in a maintenance role with exposure to mechanical and/or electrical systems.
* Strong Communication skills and the ability to lead, motivate and guide a team
* A pragmatic, problem-solving approach and ability to support troubleshooting activities
* Ability to work safely, including at heights (up to approx 25m)
* Willingness to work in shifts patterns (mon-thu 6-14 / 14-22, Fri 6-13 / 13/20)
Nice to have
* Experience with automated systems (ASRS) or large-scale machinery
* Knowledge of systems such as PCS7, TIA Portal, Siemens S7 or similar.
* Ability to make minor PLC Adjustments or diagnose issues
* Degree or qualification in Electromechanics, Automation or a related field.
Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity
We strive to create a culture of belonging where everyone feels respected, connected and free to bring their true selves to work. Diversity strenghtens how we innovate and work together.
What'sin for you
We invest in your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Here's what you can expect:
* A supportive, feedback-based culture build on respect and integrity
* An international and inclusive environment
* 50% discount on all VF Brands
* Meal and eco-cheques
* Pension plan & health cover
* Bike Leasing options
* Free onsite parking and transportation allowance
* Complimentary hot drinks and inviting break-out areas
Ready to join us?
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to get in touch.
Important note
Please be advised that a valid work permit for Belgium is required for Non-EU citizens. Unfortunately, applications without a valid work permit may not be considered.
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