Production Manager

Platform Recruitment Limited; Littlehampton; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking manufacturing company is seeking a proactive Production Team Leader to oversee operations in Littlehampton, England. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience in a manufacturing environment and strong knowledge of lean principles. Responsibilities include managing production workflow, supporting continuous improvement, and fostering a collaborative team environment. This role offers a chance to thrive in a dynamic setting while delivering outstanding results through effective leadership and technical skills.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a production or manufacturing leadership role.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methods.
• Background in mechanical engineering or related manufacturing discipline.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations within a key manufacturing unit.
• Lead a small production team to ensure targets are met.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and maintain production documentation.

Skills

Proven experience in a production or manufacturing leadership role

Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles

Excellent communication skills

Ability to motivate and lead a team

Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Education

Background in mechanical engineering or related manufacturing discipline

Tools

MRP / ERP systems (Sage experience advantageous)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Company Overview

Our client is a forward-thinking manufacturing company based on the South Coast, specialising in the design and production of high-quality mechanical and fabricated components for global customers. With a strong focus on quality, delivery and innovation, the organisation continually strives for excellence through lean manufacturing principles and a culture of teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement.

The Role

We are seeking a proactive and motivated Production Team Leader to oversee day-to-day operations within a key manufacturing unit. This role will suit a hands‑on leader who is passionate about driving performance, maintaining high standards of safety, quality, delivery and cost (SQDC), and developing a team to achieve world‑class operational results.

You will lead a small production team, ensuring targets are met while fostering a positive, collaborative environment. The position involves managing workflow, ensuring adherence to lean manufacturing practices, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining accurate production documentation.

This is an excellent opportunity for a production professional who thrives in a dynamic manufacturing setting and enjoys combining leadership, technical know-how, and problem‑solving to deliver outstanding results.

Candidate Profile

Essential

• Proven experience in a production or manufacturing leadership role.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methods.
• Background in mechanical engineering or related manufacturing discipline.
• Proficiency with MRP / ERP systems (Sage experience advantageous).
• Confident user of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to motivate, lead and develop a team in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Practical, hands‑on approach with a commitment to quality and efficiency.

Desirable

• Experience in fabrication or assembly manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of kanban systems, value stream mapping and standard work development.