Production Operations Leader | Lean & Continuous Improvement

ASSA ABLOY Group; Ashford; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus scheme

Pension with employer contributions

25 days annual leave

Death in Service

Long Service Awards

Cycle to Work Scheme

Childcare Voucher Scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

ASSA ABLOY Group in Ashford, Kent, United Kingdom, is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead production operations, drive performance, and develop a high-performing team. You will focus on safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement while ensuring targets are met efficiently.

The role requires a degree in Manufacturing/Engineering or related discipline, significant management experience in a fast-paced setting, and strong Lean/CI knowledge.

Qualifications

• A degree (or equivalent) in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
• Significant manufacturing management experience in a fast-paced production environment.
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing teams.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing operational performance, budgets, and KPIs.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day manufacturing operations to achieve production, quality, and delivery targets.
• Develop and motivate high-performing production teams.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and improve KPIs including OEE, productivity, quality, and cost performance.
• Manage manufacturing budgets and operational resources.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Work closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to optimise performance and minimise downtime.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Leadership

Budget & KPIs

Maintenance coordination

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Manufacturing/Engineering

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

ASSA ABLOY Group in Ashford, Kent, United Kingdom, is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead production operations, drive performance, and develop a high-performing team. You will focus on safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement while ensuring targets are met efficiently.

The role requires a degree in Manufacturing/Engineering or related discipline, significant management experience in a fast-paced setting, and strong Lean/CI knowledge.