Production and Purchasing Manager

Asarum Ltd; Southampton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Asarum Ltd in the South of England is seeking a highly motivated Production & Purchasing Manager to oversee end-to-end planning and execution of complex, high-precision manufacturing for ion beam systems and components. The role combines production and procurement leadership in an R&D-led environment, with a focus on reliable delivery, cost-effective purchasing, lean improvement, supplier management and safety.

Significant growth opportunities in a pioneering SME.

Qualifications

• Experience leading manufacturing and supply chain ops in scientific/high-precision engineering.
• Proven track record in low-volume, high-technology production.
• Data-driven problem solving and multi-priority management.
• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP and lean improvement methods.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end planning, coordination and execution of complex, high-precision manufacturing processes.
• Manage production schedules, supplier relationships, quality assurance and inventory controls.
• Lead lean initiatives to improve throughput, reduce waste and increase scalability.
• Drive strategic decisions and cross-functional collaboration in an R&D-led environment.

Skills

Production planning

Purchasing

Lean manufacturing

ERP/MRP systems

Quality assurance

Inventory control

Supplier relationship management

Leadership

Education

Engineering degree

NEBOSH

IOSH

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Production & Purchasing Manager for a scientific instrumentation company based in South England. In this pivotal leadership role with development opportunities, you will oversee the end-to-end planning, coordination, and execution of complex, high-precision manufacturing processes relating to ion beam systems and components. Your primary focus will be on ensuring reliable delivery, cost-effective procurement, and continuous improvement of production workflows within a R&D-led environment. You will manage production schedules, supplier relationships, quality assurance, and inventory control, fostering a culture of operational excellence and safety. The ideal candidate will leverage lean principles and strong technical insight to optimise production and supply chain performance, support future scalability, and contribute to strategic decision-making.

Significant experience in leading manufacturing and supply chain operations, ideally within a scientific or high-precision engineering environment.

Proven background in managing low-volume, high-technology product production, with a strong understanding of instrumentation or similar sectors.

Strong operational leadership skills, including team development, stakeholder engagement, and supplier relationship management.

Expertise in production planning, ERP/MRP systems, and process improvement methodologies such as lean manufacturing.

Degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline; qualifications such as NEBOSH or IOSH are desirable.

Effective problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach and capacity to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work within a pioneering SME providing cutting-edge systems used in advanced research and quantum technology applications. Benefits include a significant, competitive salary package, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to innovative projects that shape scientific discovery. You will be part of a collaborative team in a rapidly growing company committed to excellence, and technological advancement