Jose Pagano, Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Professional Overview
Jose Pagano is an accomplished operations and manufacturing executive with over 15 years of experience driving excellence across the automotive industry. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Wrightbus, he oversees all aspects of the company's operational functions, steering strategic initiatives that enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Recognized for his deep technical expertise and visionary leadership, Pagano is also a respected Business Partner, Master Consultant, and Senior Auditor at Cronnus Consultoria e Treinamentos, where he provides advisory services to clients worldwide.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Wrightbus, Pagano is responsible for the overall management and optimization of the company's operations, manufacturing, and supply chain functions. He works closely with the executive team to develop and execute strategic plans that drive operational excellence and support the organization's growth objectives. Under his leadership, Wrightbus has achieved significant improvements in production efficiency, quality, and cost control, solidifying its position as a leading manufacturer of buses and commercial vehicles.
In his parallel role as a Business Partner, Master Consultant, and Senior Auditor at Cronnus Consultoria e Treinamentos, Pagano leverages his extensive industry knowledge and expertise to provide high-level advisory services to clients across various sectors. He specializes in conducting comprehensive audits, developing tailored operational strategies, and implementing best-in-class manufacturing practices to help organizations enhance their competitiveness and profitability.
Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Pagano held several senior-level positions within the automotive industry, including Deputy Global Manufacturing Chief - Head of E-bus, e-Scooter and Supplier Park at VINFAST, Head of Manufacturing China region at Stellantis, and various leadership roles at FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive operational excellence, and deliver measurable results.
At FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Pagano served as the Vice President of Manufacturing for the APAC region, where he spearheaded the implementation of world-class manufacturing practices, resulting in significant improvements in productivity, quality, and cost optimization. He also held the position of Vehicle Senior Plant Manager, overseeing the entire vehicle manufacturing process and driving the adoption of lean manufacturing principles to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Academic Background
Pagano holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Padua, Italy, where he graduated with honors. He has also completed advanced executive education programs in operations management, strategic leadership, and supply chain optimization, further strengthening his technical and managerial expertise.
Areas of Expertise
- Operational excellence and continuous improvement
- Manufacturing optimization and process automation
- Supply chain management and logistics optimization
- Strategic planning and execution
- Cross-functional team leadership and talent development
- Global project management and stakeholder engagement
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Pagano has led the successful implementation of several high-impact initiatives, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art e-bus and e-scooter manufacturing facility at VINFAST, the optimization of Stellantis' China operations, and the deployment of world-class manufacturing practices at FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' global facilities. These achievements have earned him recognition as a respected industry leader and a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to enhance their operational performance and competitiveness.
Conclusion
With his exceptional technical acumen, strategic vision, and proven track record of driving operational excellence, Jose Pagano is poised to continue making significant contributions to the automotive industry as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Wrightbus and as a highly sought-after Business Partner, Master Consultant, and Senior Auditor at Cronnus Consultoria e Treinamentos. His unwavering commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and collaborative leadership makes him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to optimize its operations and achieve sustainable growth.
