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 * Lead and manage all aspects of manufacturing and fabrication operations, ensuring on-time, high-quality output. * Oversee preventative and remedial maintenance programmes to minimise downtime and maximise asset utilisation. * Manage stock levels, material flow, and warehouse functions to support uninterrupted production with minimal waste. * Collaborate with planning and design teams to align capability with order requirements and optimise capacity. * Coordinate with logistics and transport to ensure seamless delivery performance. * Provide technical and operational guidance to support commercial and business development teams. * Champion innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, including automation and digital manufacturing systems. * Implement lean manufacturing principles to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and optimise processes. * Maintain strict compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards. * Act on customer feedback, ensuring corrective actions and ongoing service excellence. Key Measures of Success * Efficiency and output per headcount. * Programme delivery within agreed timeframes. * Quality performance (low rework/returns). * Safety performance (zero LTIs as target). * Waste reduction and operational cost savings. Candidate Profile * Solid 5 years’ experience in manufacturing, engineering, or operations management. * Proven leadership background managing supervisors and teams in a large-scale production environment. * Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with a track record of delivering measurable improvements. * Strong cross-functional collaboration skills across production, planning, logistics, and commercial teams. Desirable: * Experience in fabrication, welding, or heavy manufacturing sectors. * Degree in Manufacturing / Production Management or related discipline. * Familiarity with lean manufacturing, automation, and digital production systems. Personal Attributes * Results-driven with strong attention to detail. * Clear communicator with the ability to influence at all levels. * Strong sense of accountability and responsibility. * 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