Lead Production Manager — Drive Efficiency & Team Growth

New Appointments Group; Ashford; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 days annual leave + bank holidays (

Staff discount on products

Life insurance

Private medical

Company pension

Free parking

Job summary

New Appointments Group is seeking a Production Manager on the outskirts of Ashford to lead a 12‑strong production team. You will oversee daily operations, drive efficiency, ensure on‑time dispatch, and mentor staff to higher performance.

The role is hands‑on with a clear path into production leadership, offering a competitive salary up to £45,000 per year, plus benefits. Monday to Friday with alternating Saturdays, in a manufacturing environment focused on quality and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Experience leading in an industrial manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Strong leadership with the ability to coach and develop.
• Experience supporting with performance, attendance and day-to-day employee matters.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• A solid understanding of Health & Safety requirements.
• Exposure to ISO 9001 or similar quality systems is advantageous.
• Experience with continuous improvement and waste reduction is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the day-to-day operation and performance of the department.
• Lead, supervise and support the team, providing direction and expectations.
• Ensure products are prepared, processed and dispatched on time, in full.
• Collaborate with Production Manager to achieve production targets.
• Communicate delays, issues or shortages affecting customer orders.
• Monitor performance and take action where targets are not met.
• Support day-to-day employee matters including performance, attendance and conduct.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork and clear communication.
• Organise and manage the workforce to meet operational needs.
• Ensure production records and documentation are completed accurately and on time.
• Monitor stock levels and liaise with Purchasing to ensure stock is available.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the plant.
• Ensure employees follow procedures and quality standards.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, training and development of team members.
• Work with management to resolve operational issues.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Health & Safety

Quality systems

Continuous improvement

Job description

New Appointments Group is seeking a Production Manager on the outskirts of Ashford to lead a 12‑strong production team. You will oversee daily operations, drive efficiency, ensure on‑time dispatch, and mentor staff to higher performance.

The role is hands‑on with a clear path into production leadership, offering a competitive salary up to £45,000 per year, plus benefits. Monday to Friday with alternating Saturdays, in a manufacturing environment focused on quality and continuous improvement.