Operations Manager

AVIC Cabin Systems; Otley; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

AVIC Cabin Systems (UK) Ltd is seeking an ambitious Operations Manager to lead production for aerospace interior programmes at our primary NPI site in the UK. You will guide cross-functional teams to ensure smooth transition from design to serial production, driving performance and continuous improvement.

You will shape ways of working alongside the existing contractor, establish robust KPIs, and ensure compliance with aerospace standards while mentoring high-performing teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace or automotive manufacturing.
• Strong New Product Introduction (NPI) experience.
• Understanding of aerospace regulatory and quality requirements.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication.
• Commercial and operational awareness with financial stewardship.
• Bridge physical efficiency with digital visibility.

Responsibilities

• Manage all production activities for Aerospace Interior programmes at the primary NPI site.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, PM and Business Support for DFMA and Change Management.
• Introduce new products from testing to first article inspection to stable serial production.
• Coordinate with offshore facilities for smooth transfer and readiness.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace quality, regulatory and safety standards.
• Develop and maintain production processes, KPIs, and performance management.
• Lead continuous improvement focused on efficiency, cost, quality, and on-time delivery.
• Build and mentor high-performing production teams.
• Support customer audits, programme reviews, and operational reporting.
• Handle NPI in bespoke make-to-order with high variability and low volume.

Skills

Lean methodology

Problem-solving

Data-driven

Collaborative leadership

Education

Engineering/Manufacturing/Operations degree

Job description

Purpose

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated manufacturing lead to move into our Operations Manager role and play a pivotal role in delivering world-class aerospace interior programmes to OEM’s and key airline customers.

We are seeking an ambitious, energetic and inspirational Operations Manager. This is a hands-on role for someone who improves performance using data, insight and commercial thinking to make smarter decisions, improve processes and help the business perform at its best.

The successful candidate will initially work alongside the existing contractor to shape how we work and ensure seamless transition from design and development through to stable serial production, driving operational excellence, quality, delivery performance and continuous improvement

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all production activities relating to Aerospace Interior programmes at the primary NPI manufacturing site while supporting Aftermarket Excellence.
• Work within NPI cross-functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Programme Management and Business Support teams to ensure effective DFMA and Change Management.
• Manage the successful introduction of new products from testing, head of version and first article inspection to handing over a stable build for serial production.
• Collaborate closely with offshore serial production facilities to ensure smooth production transfer, process alignment, and operational readiness.
• Ensure compliance with all aerospace quality, regulatory and safety standards, including all internal procedures and processes.
• Develop and maintain robust production processes, KPIs, and performance management systems.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, cost reduction, quality improvement, and on‑time delivery.
• Build, develop, and mentor high‑performing production teams and leadership structures.
• Support customer audits, programme reviews, and operational reporting requirements.

• Manage NPI within bespoke and innovative make‑to‑order (MTO) manufacturing involving high‑variability and low‑volume execution

This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. The successful job holder will be expected to perform varying tasks as required by their line manager & the overall objectives of the organisation.

Key Attributes

• Able to employ lean methodology thinking
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills
• Results- data driven with a focus on quality and delivery
• Collaborative leadership style driving a culture of engagement
• High level of accountability and professionalism

Knowledge

• Proven experience within aerospace or automotive manufacturing or comparable industry.
• Strong experience in New Product Introduction (NPI).
• Understanding of aerospace regulatory and quality requirements.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong commercial and operational awareness, maintaining strong financial stewardship.
• Bridge physical efficiency with digital visibility introducing process waste reduction, digital factories and Operational Excellence
• Degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related discipline preferred.

Other material requirements

• Limited travel may be required to support the business

Avic Cabin Systems (UK) Ltd is an equal opportunities employer