We're on the lookout for a proactive and hands-on Pre-Production Manager to take ownership of our sublimation factory's pre-production area. This is a key role within our production team, ensuring everything that flows into sewing is planned, managed, and delivered efficiently. If you're motivated by targets, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy rolling up your sleeves alongside the team, this could be the perfect role for you.
About the Role
As Pre-Production Manager, you'll be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day running of our pre-production operations. Your main focus will be on measuring volumes, identifying and driving efficiencies, and ensuring that daily and weekly targets are met so that the sewing department always has the output it needs.
You'll manage and work closely with the team across a range of equipment, including printers, laser, calendar, and flat bed machinery. This means you'll need to be as comfortable with hands-on tasks as you are with managing people and processes.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys a balance of leadership and technical know-how, ensuring the workflow is smooth, the team is motivated, and quality is consistently high.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage pre-production workflow to ensure all targets are met and exceeded.
* Measure and monitor volumes through the department to identify areas for greater efficiency.
* Oversee daily operations across key machinery:
* Printers
* Laser
* Calendar
* Flat Bed
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise productivity, reduce downtime, and maintain high-quality output.
* Lead, support, and develop the pre-production team, ensuring training and standards are consistently applied.
* Work closely with the wider production team to maintain alignment and ensure smooth handovers into sewing.
* Troubleshoot and problem-solve operational issues quickly to minimise disruption.
About You
We're looking for someone who can balance people management with practical, technical ability. You'll need to be confident leading a team while also being able to step in on the shop floor when required.
The ideal candidate will have:
* Experience in a manufacturing, textiles, or production environment (experience with sublimation is an advantage).
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, train, and support a team.
* A methodical and organised approach, with excellent problem-solving skills.
* A proven track record of achieving daily/weekly output targets.
* The ability to identify efficiencies and implement improvements.
* A hands-on approach and willingness to get involved in the day-to-day running of the equipment.
Why Join Us?
At Akuma, we're more than just a sportswear brand - we're a team of passionate people dedicated to creating high-quality, performance-driven products. Joining us means being part of a company that values innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
We offer:
* A fast-paced and supportive environment where no two days are the same.
* The chance to make a tangible impact on production efficiency and output.
* Opportunities to develop your skills and grow within the business.
* A team culture built on respect, collaboration, and shared success.
If you're ready to take the lead in a role where you can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £25,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Company events
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* On-site parking
* Sabbatical
* Sick pay
Work Location: In person