Assistant Director - Manufacturing

The Royal British Legion; Aylesford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization in the UK is seeking a dynamic leader for its Social Enterprise team, overseeing operational excellence and strategic growth. Candidates should demonstrate strong manufacturing management experience and a commitment to social impact, particularly in supporting veterans and individuals with disabilities. This role offers a chance to shape the future of the organization and contribute to significant social change.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in manufacturing management, planning, engineering, and ERP.
• Skills to deliver margin enhancement and operational excellence.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Passion for social impact and inclusive employment.
• Ability to work flexibly across multiple sites.

Responsibilities

• Support achievement of budgeted output and operational targets.
• Align processes and practices across locations.
• Drive engineering and operational improvements.
• Champion the employment of veterans and individuals with disabilities.
• Contribute to national expansion strategy.

Skills

Manufacturing management

Planning

Engineering

ERP

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Passion for social impact

Adaptability

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic leader to join our Social Enterprise team in a pivotal national role. This position is split across two core areas of responsibility:

1. Operational Excellence & Workforce Development
   • Support achievement of budgeted output and operational targets.
   • Align processes and practices across locations to foster a unified "One Social Enterprise" approach.
   • Drive engineering and operational improvements to enhance manufacturing efficiency.
   • Champion the employment, development, and progression of our national workforce, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
2. Strategic Expansion & Growth
   • Contribute to the development and execution of our national expansion strategy.
   • Lead on operational aspects of start‑up initiatives and/or acquisitions in strategic regions across the UK.
   • Identify opportunities for growth and innovation that align with our social mission.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in manufacturing management, planning, engineering, and ERP.
• The skills and experience to deliver margin enhancement and operational excellence.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A passion for social impact and inclusive employment.
• The ability to work flexibly across multiple sites and adapt to a fast‑paced, evolving environment.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a purpose‑driven organisation, making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans and people with disabilities. You'll be part of a collaborative leadership team committed to innovation, inclusion, and national impact.