Role Overview
The Head of Production will have full responsibility for the day-to-day running and strategic development of the workshop. You will oversee all aspects of stone production.
This is a hands-on leadership role, requiring strong operational knowledge, excellent people management skills, and the ability to drive continuous improvement in a busy, high-quality manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
* Lead, motivate, and develop the workshop team.
* Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
* Provide training, mentorship, and skills development.
Production Planning & Delivery
* Oversee the end-to-end production process from initial brief to finished product.
* Manage production schedules, ensuring projects are completed on time and to specification.
* Implement and maintain effective workflow systems to optimise efficiency.
Quality & Compliance
* Uphold the highest standards of quality.
* Ensure all work complies with relevant safety regulations, quality standards, and client specifications.
* Conduct regular inspections, resolve defects, and drive improvements in quality control.
Operational Excellence & Improvement
* Monitor and report on production KPIs (output, quality, on-time delivery, waste reduction).
* Be accountable for achieving set KPIs in production.
* Identify and implement process improvements, new technologies, and best practices in stone production.
* Oversee equipment maintenance and ensure workshop tools and machinery are safe and fit for purpose.
Budget & Resource Management
* Manage production budgets, ensuring cost-effective use of materials, labour, and equipment.
* Reduce waste and optimise material usage.
Client & Project Liaison
* Work closely with the design, sales, and installation teams to ensure production aligns with client requirements.
Health, Safety & Environment
* Lead by example on all health and safety practices in the workshop.
* Ensure compliance with manual handling, dust extraction, and PPE requirements.
Requirements
Skills / Experience
* Experience leading a team in a manufacturing environment
* Lean/6 Sigma experience preferred
* Up to date knowledge of UK Health & Safety requirements in manufacturing
* Experience utilising data to improve manufacturing processes
* Strong awareness and knowledge of RAMS in a production environment
* Problem solving experience
* Experience developing internal processes and continuous improvement
* Experience using CAD/CAM and programmed machines
* Experience in natural stone/masonry preferred but not required
* Strong experience in production strategy and planning
* Experience managing department budgets and reporting performance
* Demonstrable project management skills & knowledge
* Knowledge of workflows and value chain
* Able to reliably commute to Great Milton, Oxfordshire
* Right to work in the UK
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