Responsibilities
* Lead the industrialisation of new tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
* Define, validate, and optimise production processes to ensure repeatability, quality, and cost‑effectiveness.
* Oversee process capability studies, PFMEAs, and control plans for new or modified processes.
* Collaborate with Engineering and R&D teams to ensure manufacturability and smooth product introduction.
* Analyse production performance data and Value Stream Mapping to identify bottlenecks, waste, and improvement opportunities.
* Drive initiatives to improve throughput, reduce cycle time, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness.
* Support cost‑reduction programmes through process optimisation and waste elimination.
* Lead LEAN transformation activities across the manufacturing area.
* Facilitate Kaizen events, root‑cause analysis sessions, and cross‑functional problem‑solving workshops.
* Implement and sustain 5S practices, ensuring workplace organisation becomes part of daily culture.
* Train and mentor teams in LEAN tools such as value stream mapping, SMED, visual management, and standard work.
* Manage and develop the Manufacturing Engineering and Test Manufacturing Engineering teams.
* Set clear priorities, allocate resources, and ensure alignment with operational goals.
* Work closely with production, quality, supply chain, and Engineering and R&D teams to resolve issues and support daily operations.
* Build a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
* Ensure process documentation, work instructions, and configuration items are accurate and up to date.
* Maintain compliance with the company’s quality management system and relevant industry standards.
* Oversee ERP/MRP configuration related to manufacturing processes, routings, and BOM accuracy.
* Support audits and drive corrective actions where required.
Qualifications
* Degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or similar).
* Proven experience developing, industrialising, and optimising manufacturing processes, tooling, and fixtures.
* Strong background in process validation, capability studies, PFMEA, and control plan creation.
* Demonstrated success implementing LEAN methodologies, such as Kaizen, 5S and value stream mapping.
* Track record of delivering measurable improvements in production efficiency, cycle time, yield etc.
* Hands‑on experience in a live production environment.
* Experience leading structured problem‑solving activities.
* Competence in ERP/MRP systems, including configuration of routings, BOMs, and process data.
* Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
* Experience working with D365 Finance and Operations (Microsoft ERP system).
* Knowledge of quality systems such as ISO9001 and AS9100.
* Prior leadership experience managing engineers or technicians, or significant project leadership demonstrating equivalent capability.
* Experience of working with and processing optical fibres including splicing and joining.
* Technical understanding and experience of manufacturing optical devices.
Benefits
* Work‑life integration
* Mobile working
* Flexible working hours
* Pension scheme
* Good development opportunitiesEmployee discounts
* Attractive remuneration system
* Health initiatives
#J-18808-Ljbffr