About the opportunity:
We are the internal recruitment partner for a well-established business creating bespoke exhibition stands for events across the UK and internationally. With a strong and growing pipeline of projects, they are now seeking an experienced Head of Production to lead their production function at their site near Peterborough.
This is a senior leadership position within the business, responsible for overseeing end-to-end production operations, driving operational excellence, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality projects in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. The role offers the opportunity to shape strategy, develop teams, and implement continuous improvements across the production lifecycle.
Responsibilities:
* Leading and overseeing all production operations, including workshop, build, and logistical planning functions.
* Developing and implementing production strategies to improve efficiency, scalability, and output quality.
* Managing the day-to-day running of the production department, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
* Leading, mentoring, and developing a multi-disciplinary team, including line management responsibilities and performance development.
* Planning, scheduling, and coordinating multiple concurrent projects across the UK and abroad.
* Allocating labour and resources effectively to maximise productivity and ensure delivery deadlines are met.
* Driving high standards of quality, organisation, health & safety, and operational excellence across all production activities.
* Collaborating closely with Sales, Design, Print, and Operations teams to ensure seamless project execution.
* Overseeing logistics planning, including transport, fleet management, and the coordination of specialist equipment for installations.
* Supporting and overseeing site installations, breakdowns, and client handovers when required.
* Monitoring production performance, reporting on KPIs, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
* Implementing best practices, new processes, and innovative build methods to enhance efficiency and output
Requirements:
* Proven experience in a senior production leadership role within a workshop, manufacturing, or production environment.
* Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience building and developing high-performing teams.
* Background in carpentry, joinery, fabrication, or a similar hands-on trade is highly advantageous.
* Experience within the exhibition, events, shopfitting, or display build industry is highly desirable.
* Demonstrable experience managing complex, multi-project production environments under tight deadlines.
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, cost, and timelines.
* Excellent organisational and planning skills, with a strategic approach to production management.
* Experience coordinating logistics, transport, and operational resources.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across all business levels.
* Flexible approach to working hours and travel, in line with project requirements.
Benefits:
* Competitive salary of £55,000 – £65,000 per annum, dependent on experience.
* 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Pension contributions.
* Life insurance.
* Cycle to Work scheme.
* Opportunity to play a key role in a growing, well-respected exhibition build business.