Manufacturing Manager (Composites) Location: Belfast Area Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 + Excellent Benefits Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent A leading high-technology engineering organisation is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead production operations within its advanced composite manufacturing division. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking company operating at the cutting edge of sustainable innovation, delivering complex, high-value assemblies in a fast-paced environment. The Role Reporting to the Production Director, the Manufacturing Manager will be responsible for leading a multidisciplinary team to deliver composite and metallic assemblies to the highest standards of cost, quality, and schedule. This is a hands-on leadership role suited to an individual with proven experience in composite manufacturing, assembly operations, and continuous improvement. You will play a pivotal role in shaping production processes, embedding a strong safety culture, and driving operational excellence as the organisation continues its rapid growth journey. Key Responsibilities Lead, develop, and manage the manufacturing team including direct and indirect labour ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. Oversee the delivery of composite and metallic assemblies to meet customer and internal project timelines. Drive a strong Health & Safety culture, ensuring all work complies with company and regulatory standards. Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, and operations teams to support seamless project delivery. Implement LEAN, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and quality performance. Oversee workforce planning, resource management, and day-to-day production scheduling. Monitor departmental KPIs across cost, quality, delivery, and safety metrics, implementing improvement plans where required. Support industrialisation strategies for new product introductions, ensuring scalable and repeatable production processes. Champion training, development, and performance management of team leads and operational staff. About You Degree-qualified (or equivalent experience) in Manufacturing, Engineering, or related discipline. Proven track record managing teams within a composite or advanced manufacturing environment. Strong leadership ability with experience managing large direct-labour teams (50-100+ personnel). Demonstrable experience delivering results in low-volume, high-complexity manufacturing. Skilled in LEAN principles, process optimisation, and production planning. Strong communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable working under pressure in a fast-growing environment. Desirable: Experience in composite assembly, lamination, or structural bonding. Knowledge of New Product Introduction (NPI) and industrialisation processes. Familiarity with MS Office and production management systems. What's on Offer £55,000 - £60,000 salary, depending on experience. Private Medical Insurance and Health Cashback Plan. Pension scheme, Life Insurance, and Group Income Protection. Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes. 22 days annual leave plus 13 public/bank holidays (increasing with service). Regular team and family social events. Inclusive, collaborative, and innovation-driven culture with strong focus on personal and professional growth. For more information or to apply, please reach out to at VANRATH. INDKY Skills: MANUFACTURING PRODUCTION MANAGER COMPOSITE LEAN PROCESS QUALITY Benefits: Benefits Package