Alliance Personnel are seeking a skilled and experienced Machine Shop Manager to lead manufacturing operations at one of our clients based in South Birmingham.
This role combines technical expertise with strategic oversight, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products while fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
Key Responsibilities
Product Realisation
* Interpret and transform technical drawings into finished products.
* Assess designs during concept and pre-production phases to ensure manufacturing feasibility.
* Apply hands-on expertise in machining, welding, and assembly to achieve precise outcomes.
Leadership & Team Development
* Lead and inspire a small team of multi-skilled welders and toolmakers.
* Support recruitment efforts to build a well-rounded team aligned with company values.
* Mentor and develop team members to enhance skills and improve retention.
Shop Floor Operations
* Oversee daily machine shop activities, ensuring precision, quality, and safety.
* Troubleshoot machining and welding processes with practical, hands-on knowledge.
* Implement efficiency metrics such as machine availability and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
* Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations, ISO standards, and internal processes.
Engineering & Process Management
* Use mechanical engineering expertise to drive innovation and process improvements.
* Continuously evaluate and enhance production workflows and output quality.
Strategic Oversight
* Manage supply chain and material coordination for in-house manufacturing and assembly.
* Plan and allocate resources across multiple projects to meet customer deadlines.
* Coordinate outsourced activities in alignment with internal production schedules.
* Act as a brand ambassador, representing the company’s values and ethos.
* Establish and maintain strong interdepartmental relationships with colleagues based in the London office, fostering collaboration through proactive engagement and regular direct communication, not solely relying on email to ensure seamless operational alignment across sites.
Hands-On Contribution
* While primarily a leadership role, the Machine Shop Manager is expected to actively support machining and fitting tasks when necessary to meet project deadlines. This includes stepping in on the shop floor to assist with complex or time-sensitive work, demonstrating a strong commitment to teamwork and delivery excellence.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Experience & Skills
* Proven experience managing a machine shop or similar manufacturing environment.
* Strong background in mechanical engineering, with hands-on experience in machining and welding.
* Proficient in reading and interpreting complex technical drawings.
* Demonstrated success in team building, recruitment, and training.
Attributes
* Practical problem-solver with a detail-oriented mindset.
* Strategic thinker with the ability to see the bigger picture.
* Passionate about delivering high-quality, innovative products.
* Effective communicator and team motivator.
* Will when needed role sleeves up and help
40hrs per week, PERM placement