Production & Operations Manager Location: On-site / workshop-based (full-time) – not remote or hybrid Contract: Permanent Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 (Depending on Experience) About the role We are a specialist automotive and aftermarket manufacturing business producing safety-critical components, including low-volume and bespoke assemblies. We are seeking a hands-on Production & Operations Manager to run day-to-day production, manage workflow, and ensure products are delivered accurately, safely, and on time. This is a fully on-site, practical role suited to someone comfortable working “in the business” while helping improve how things run. This role is not remote or hybrid. What you’ll be doing Plan and oversee daily production activity Personally handle or oversee bespoke / non-standard jobs Allocate work to production operatives and monitor output Ensure quality and automotive conformity standards are met Manage stock usage and production readiness Oversee goods-in / goods-out Liaise with suppliers on parts availability Identify and resolve production or workflow issues Who this role suits This role is well suited to someone who has worked as a: Hands-on Production Supervisor Operations Coordinator in SME manufacturing Workshop / Production Manager in a small firm Technical Lead in a low-layer organisation You’ll be a quick starter, comfortable rolling your sleeves up, and used to working in small or medium-sized businesses where things move fast and people take responsibility. What this role is not Not a finance or billing role Not desk-only management Not remote or hybrid Not a large corporate environment Why apply Clear ownership and accountability Visible impact on output and quality Stable, practical role with scope to grow Candidate Profile Essential Background in manufacturing, production, or technical operations Experience working in SMEs or low-layer organisations Comfortable combining hands-on work with coordinating others Strong attention to detail and quality Able to get operational quickly (“quick starter”) Desirable Automotive, aftermarket, or safety-critical manufacturing experience Experience with low-volume or bespoke production Familiarity with inventory / ERP systems This Role Is Well Suited To Candidates Who Have Been Hands-on Production Supervisor Operations Coordinator in SME manufacturing Workshop / Production Manager in a small firm Technical Lead in a low-layer organisation Progression As the business stabilises and grows, the role may evolve with additional operational support hired underneath. The initial focus is delivery, accuracy, and operational control. This role suits someone who enjoys making things run properly, safely, and efficiently - not someone looking for a purely strategic or remote management position.