Overview
W Talent Manufacturing are supporting a growing engineering-led manufacturing business based in Derbyshire in the appointment of a Production Manager.
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious, hands-on manufacturing leader to take ownership of a multi-faceted production operation, driving improvements in performance, productivity and operational efficiency.
The business operates within specialist industrial manufacturing markets, supplying technically complex products into demanding sectors where quality, reliability and operational standards are critical. With a clear focus on developing its manufacturing capability and supporting future growth, the business is looking for an individual who can bring fresh thinking, strong leadership and a continuous improvement mindset to the operation.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Operations Director, the Production Manager will take responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and ongoing development of the manufacturing operation, ensuring the business delivers against its key objectives around safety, quality, delivery, cost and people.
This is a hands-on leadership position, combining operational control with longer-term manufacturing improvement. You will be expected to challenge existing processes, develop the production team and implement structured improvements that create a more efficient, scalable and high-performing operation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all aspects of production across multiple assembly, testing and specialist manufacturing operations.
- Take ownership of safety, quality, delivery, cost and overall manufacturing performance.
- Drive daily production planning, capacity management, labour utilisation and resource allocation.
- Develop and embed a culture of continuous improvement, utilising Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Identify opportunities to improve production flow, manufacturing layouts, productivity, equipment utilisation and operational efficiency.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators, including schedule adherence, productivity, first-pass yield, scrap, rework and on-time delivery.
- Develop and coach production supervisors and team leaders, building accountability, capability and engagement throughout the team.
- Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Purchasing and Logistics to improve material flow, new product introduction and manufacturing readiness.
- Ensure robust manufacturing processes, work instructions, traceability and quality standards are maintained.
- Lead improvement projects that support increased manufacturing capacity, investment in equipment and future business growth.
The Person
We are keen to speak with experienced Production Managers or Manufacturing Managers who have operated within an engineering-led or technically complex manufacturing environment.
You will ideally bring:
- Proven experience leading a production or manufacturing operation within an engineering, assembly or precision manufacturing environment.
- A strong track record of improving manufacturing performance through Lean, Six Sigma and continuous improvement initiatives.
- The ability to translate operational objectives into practical shop-floor improvements and measurable results.
- Strong leadership skills, with experience developing supervisors, team leaders and wider production teams.
- A good understanding of production planning, capacity management, ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing processes.
- Experience working within an ISO 9001 quality environment, with an appreciation of product certification and traceability requirements.
- A proactive, hands-on approach, with the confidence to challenge existing practices and drive positive change.
Desirable Experience
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt qualification.
- Process Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering knowledge
- Experience within high-mix, low-to-medium-volume manufacturing or electro-mechanical assembly.
- Experience supporting the introduction of new products, production cells or manufacturing facilities.
- Exposure to highly regulated, safety-critical products .
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary package
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Opportunities for career progression within a growing manufacturing organisation
- The chance to play a key role in shaping and improving manufacturing operations