Production Manager – Manufacturing & Fabrication, South East England (Port-based Manufacturing Site) -
We are seeking an experienced Production Manager / Head of Operations to take responsibility for a large-scale manufacturing and fabrication facility. This role covers the full production cycle — from order confirmation through to customer delivery — with a strong focus on efficiency, quality, safety, and service.
You will lead a skilled operations team, working closely with design, planning, sales, and logistics functions. This position is ideal for a proven operations leader who thrives in a high-volume, fast-paced industrial environment and can deliver measurable improvements in performance, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and manage all aspects of manufacturing and fabrication operations, ensuring on-time, high-quality output.
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Oversee preventative and remedial maintenance programmes to minimise downtime and maximise asset utilisation.
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Manage stock levels, material flow, and warehouse functions to support uninterrupted production with minimal waste.
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Collaborate with planning and design teams to align capability with order requirements and optimise capacity.
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Coordinate with logistics and transport to ensure seamless delivery performance.
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Provide technical and operational guidance to support commercial and business development teams.
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Champion innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, including automation and digital manufacturing systems.
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Implement lean manufacturing principles to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and optimise processes.
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Maintain strict compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
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Act on customer feedback, ensuring corrective actions and ongoing service excellence.
Key Measures of Success
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Efficiency and output per headcount.
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Programme delivery within agreed timeframes.
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Quality performance (low rework/returns).
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Safety performance (zero LTIs as target).
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Waste reduction and operational cost savings.
Candidate Profile
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Solid 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing, engineering, or operations management.
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Proven leadership background managing supervisors and teams in a large-scale production environment.
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Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with a track record of delivering measurable improvements.
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Strong cross-functional collaboration skills across production, planning, logistics, and commercial teams.
Desirable:
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Experience in fabrication, welding, or heavy manufacturing sectors.
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Degree in Manufacturing / Production Management or related discipline.
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Familiarity with lean manufacturing, automation, and digital production systems.
Personal Attributes
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Results-driven with strong attention to detail.
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Clear communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
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Strong sense of accountability and responsibility.
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Collaborative approach with focus on teamwork and customer service.
👉 Apply now for this exciting opportunity in Production & Operations Management with a company driving major transformation in their sector