Head of Manufacturing Process and Systems
Full-time, Permanent, Hybrid working
Please note that this role requires security checks and possible security clearance.
This is a high impact role focused on improving how manufacturing works across JFD. Working across manufacturing, supply chain, production, planning, engineering, quality, technical services and business operations, you will help improve performance, stability, efficiency and delivery confidence. The role combines longer‑term improvement with hands‑on delivery in a fast‑paced, regulated manufacturing environment. Some ad‑hoc travel, both domestically and internationally, will be required.
Lead the development of global manufacturing strategies including complex global product manufacturing plans.
- Support the Operations Director by leading Operations strategy development to support business growth and the wider strategicplan.
- Drive measurable improvements in areas such as safety, quality, delivery, productivity, lead time, cost and inventory.
- Work with functional heads to address systemic issues, bottlenecks, waste and recurring failure demand.
- Establish clear improvement plans, reporting and performance measures for the Operations Director.
- Support the move from reactive firefighting to more stable, controlled and repeatable ways of working as part of the wider JFD system.
- Align with the IMS and ERP Transformation project which will run in parallel.
- Strong breadth of knowledge across manufacturing and operational functions.
- Experience in manufacturing improvement, operational excellence, transformation or similar leadership roles.
- Strong understanding of continuous improvement, lean principles, process improvement and performance management.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior level and work effectively across functions.
- Strong data and performance literacy, using metrics to identify issues, track progress and measure impact.
- Early finish on Fridays
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.)
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility
- James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration.
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About us | James Fisher and Sons plc
James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting-edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence markets. Operating worldwide, JFD is the foremost provider of submarine rescue services and a trusted name in submarine escape training. Were also at the forefront of hyperbaric rescue innovation and a leading supplier of advanced diving equipment and saturation systems across the industry. At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce.
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