Manufacturing Operations Manager
“This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can manage both production performance and wider operational processes within a busy sheet metal manufacturing business. You’ll play a key role in improving efficiency, delivery performance and reducing reliance on company directors.”
Role Purpose:
To take full responsibility for both the day-to-day production operation and wider business operations, ensuring jobs move efficiently from quotation handover through production to dispatch.
This role will oversee shop floor performance, production planning, materials, systems, and operational efficiency while reducing reliance on directors for day-to-day decision making.
The successful candidate will bring structure, accountability, and leadership across the business while maintaining strong customer service and delivery performance.
Key Responsibilities
Manage daily production activities using MRP system (MIETrak)
Plan, schedule, and prioritise workflow across:
Laser Cutting
Press Brake
Fabrication
Welding
Finishing
Assembly
Ensure jobs are completed on time and to required quality standards
Identify production bottlenecks and implement solutions
Manage production capacity and labour planning
Improve workflow efficiency across departments
Oversee purchasing of raw materials and subcontract services
Manage stock levels and material availability
Coordinate dispatch and delivery schedules
Maintain supplier relationships
Ensure operational systems are running effectively
Improve business processes and reduce waste/costs
Support long-term capacity planning
Leadership & People Management
Lead shop floor supervisors/team leaders
Manage employee performance, attendance, and productivity
Provide strong day-to-day leadership
Support recruitment, onboarding, and staff development
Create accountability across departments
MRP / Systems Management
Take ownership of MIETrak
Ensure jobs are accurately loaded, tracked, and closed off
Improve use of system data for operational planning
Ensure accurate production reporting
Customer & Commercial Support
Work closely with estimating/sales team on lead times
Communicate realistic delivery dates to customers
Resolve operational/customer issues quickly
Support business growth by improving operational capacity
Continuous Improvement
Monitor:
Labour utilisation
Machine utilisation
Delivery performance
Job profitability
Production lead times
Implement lean improvements
Reduce inefficiencies and downtime
Health, Safety & Quality
Ensure compliance with health & safety requirements
Maintain quality standards
Drive continuous improvement initiatives
Ideal Candidate
Strong background in sheet metal fabrication/manufacturing
Experience with laser, press brake, fabrication and welding environments
Previous experience in both production and operational leadership
Strong MRP/ERP experience (MIETrak ideal)
Commercial awareness
Strong leadership ability
Hands-on problem solver
Able to work in fast-paced SME environment