Production Manager

ASC Connections; Panfield; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing business in the Chelmsford area is seeking a Production Manager to lead and develop the production team, ensuring operational excellence and quality output. This role requires proven experience in production management and knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles. The company offers a competitive salary, pension, private healthcare, and opportunities for personal development.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Private healthcare

22 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Discretionary annual bonus

On-site gym

Enhanced maternity and paternity pay

Qualifications

• Proven experience in production management or supervision within manufacturing, assembly, or construction.
• Strong leadership, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production staff.
• Plan and manage production schedules to meet targets.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives for efficiency.
• Ensure quality inspections and compliance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve issues.

Skills

Production management experience

Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Technical drawing interpretation

Tools

ERP systems

MRP systems

Job description

Overview

A Production Manager opportunity has become available with a leading manufacturing business delivering high-quality products and systems to a range of sectors. The company is known for its collaborative culture, commitment to quality and safety, and focus on continuous improvement. With recent investment in people, processes, and systems, they're looking for a Production Manager to lead the production team, drive operational excellence, and ensure efficient, high-quality output. The role is based in the Chelmsford area and offers a competitive salary, along with pension, healthcare, generous leave, and long-term development opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Leading, mentoring, and developing a team of production staff and supervisors.
• Planning and managing production schedules to meet time-critical targets.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, productivity, and equipment effectiveness.
• Ensuring quality inspections, testing, and compliance at all relevant workstations.
• Collaborating with Maintenance, Quality, Warehouse, and Logistics teams to resolve production issues.
• Maintaining training records, conducting performance reviews, and supporting staff development.
• Reporting on production performance, issues, and improvements.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in production management or supervision within manufacturing, assembly, or construction.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Poka-Yoke).
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven production analysis.
• Strong leadership, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Excellent communication skills and confidence working with cross-functional teams.

Benefits

• Competitive pension scheme with contributions increasing with service.
• Private healthcare covering employees, partners, and children up to age 21.
• 22 days annual leave plus English bank holidays and Christmas shutdown.
• Life insurance (4x salary) and income protection.
• Discretionary annual bonus linked to company performance.
• On-site gym, health checks, and lifestyle support programmes.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
• Long service awards and employee recognition initiatives.
• Social calendar including family events, company activities, and sporting events.

If you're looking for a hands‑on, technically engaging role where you can lead a production team, drive operational improvement, and make a real impact on quality and efficiency, apply now via the link in this Production Manager advert.

Keywords: Production Management, Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Team Leadership, Scheduling, Manufacturing, Assembly, Operational Excellence, Health & Safety, Quality Standards, ERP, MRP

We are committed to equal opportunity and diversity.