Are you an experienced Head of Assembly with a background in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing? We’re working with an advanced engineering organisation looking for a strong leader to head up their structural assembly operations. You’ll be responsible for managing a team of 6 direct reports and around 100 indirect staff, ensuring safety, quality, and delivery targets are met across a complex, high-compliance production environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a key department within a forward-thinking and fast-paced manufacturing site.
Head of Assembly
Full – Time, Permanent
Northwest, UK
Competitive Salary & Benefits
Head of Assembly
Job Description
Lead and manage all aspects of the assembly function, including manpower, workflow, quality, and output across multiple shifts.
Supervise 6 direct reports (team leaders, supervisors, and support staff) and approximately 100 indirect reports.
Oversee the assembly of large, high-tolerance structural components for aerospace applications, including spars, ribs, and reinforcements.
Ensure strict compliance with aerospace quality standards, including AS9100 and customer-specific requirements.
Drive Lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Machining, Quality, Engineering, Planning, and Logistics to meet production targets.
Promote and enforce a strong Health & Safety culture, ensuring all operations comply with HSE standards and procedures.
Track and report on operational KPIs including OEE, on-time delivery, labour efficiency, yield, and rework rates.
Lead internal and external audits related to assembly processes and standards compliance.
Support strategic decisions regarding layout improvements, new equipment, and operational expansion.
Head of Assembly
Qualifications & Experience:
5+ years in a senior leadership position within assembly operations, preferably in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing.
Proven experience managing large teams in a regulated production environment.
Deep understanding of metallic structural assembly and tight-tolerance, high-compliance manufacturing.
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven decision-making.
Demonstrated success in leading operational change and process improvement.
HNC/HND or Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical field preferred.
If you feel you’re a good fit for this position, please click ‘apply