Production Manager

Futures Recruitment Services; Hailsham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing recruitment firm is looking for an experienced Production Manager to oversee advanced manufacturing operations in Hailsham, UK. The ideal candidate will possess over 10 years of experience in precision engineering, focusing on CNC machining and Lean manufacturing practices. Key responsibilities include leading production teams, ensuring efficiency, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This role requires a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on involvement, aiming for operational excellence and team development.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years’ experience in senior production management within precision engineering or advanced manufacturing.
• Proven ability to manage large teams and deliver operational targets.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and modern production practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate multi-disciplinary production teams.
• Ensure production schedules meet customer commitments.
• Promote Lean and Six Sigma practices across operations.

Skills

CNC machining

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Team management

Education

Engineering degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or related discipline

Job description

Production Manager

Location: Lower Dicker, UK
Reports to: Operations Director

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead advanced manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for driving excellence across CNC machining, UHV cleaning, assembly, quality control, and logistics, combining operational delivery with strategic leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and People Development

• Lead and motivate multi-disciplinary production teams.

• Mentor future leaders and build team resilience.

• Provide both strategic oversight and hands‑on involvement.

Operational Delivery

• Ensure production schedules meet customer commitments.

• Achieve efficiency, yield, and on‑time delivery targets.

• Maintain ISO 9001 standards and embed lean manufacturing practices.

Continuous Improvement and Scalability

• Promote Lean and Six Sigma practices across operations.

• Develop scalable processes to support growth.

• Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work with Planning, Purchasing, Engineering, and Sales to align operations.

• Maintain a safe and compliant working environment.

Strategic Contribution

• Provide operational insight to support strategic decision‑making.

• Contribute to the development and direction of production and business operations.

Essential Skills and Experience

• At least 10 years’ experience in senior production management within precision engineering or advanced manufacturing.

• Experience in CNC machining, turning, milling, and precision assembly.

• Knowledge of ISO 9001, Lean manufacturing, and modern production practices.

• Proven ability to manage large teams and deliver operational targets.

• Engineering degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or related discipline.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Six Sigma or advanced Lean expertise.

• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies.

• Experience in cross‑functional operations and scaling production internationally.

Personal Attributes

• Confident and effective leader with strong communication skills.

• Customer‑focused and commercially aware.

• Resilient, adaptable, and results‑oriented.

• Analytical and structured, with excellent planning and prioritisation skills.

• Hands‑on leader able to operate at both tactical and strategic levels.