Introduction to XYZ A groundbreaking & award-winning Construction Technology company; XYZ Reality are the creators of the world's first and only engineering-grade Augmented Reality solution, purpose-built for the construction industry. Not only have we created this technology, that sits within The Atom – a smart, site-safe headset and hardhat - but we implement it on major Mission Critical (Data Centres, Oil & Gas, Pharmaceutical, Aviation) projects, utilising the power of AR to ensure that all schemes are completed in line with the delivery timescales and budgets. Key Responsibilities Production Planning and Execution · Direct the assembly, calibration, and testing of AR systems (hard hats, controllers, basestations, charge stations, batteries, and accessories) to precise specifications and SOP standards. · Manage production scheduling to meet annual targets of 80–140 new systems and up to 40 repairs, whilst accommodating material lead times and seasonal constraints. · Coordinate with procurement to anticipate supply chain challenges; develop contingency plans for component shortages. · Maintain detailed production records, build serialisation, and full product traceability through the E-Max ERP system. · Ensure production meets forward-looking schedules and communicates status weekly to leadership. Quality Assurance and Compliance · Establish and enforce a robust quality management system (QMS) aligned with industry standards for advanced medical-device-like manufacturing. · Conduct final inspections on all outgoing products; perform root-cause analysis on customer returns and field failures. · Ensure incoming component inspection meets acceptance criteria; maintain detailed defect and non-conformance records. · Drive continuous improvement in processes, SOPs, and tooling to reduce defects, rework, and repair cycles. · Monitor quality metrics (yield, scrap rate, rework, customer satisfaction) and report to leadership. Product Support and RMA Management · Own the Freshdesk customer support workflow; triage and respond to hardware support tickets. · Coordinate replacement unit shipments and RMA logistics. · Perform failure analysis on returned units; identify root causes and implement corrective actions. · Track failure trends and communicate insights to the design and procurement teams. · Ensure timely requalification and redeployment of repaired units. Team Leadership and Knowledge Capture · Lead a small growing team, high-calibre team (Production Technician, existing Test Tech, Stock/Logistics Person, and rotating contractors/temps) with clear objectives, accountability, and development opportunities. · Mentor the Production Technician and support advancement of the Test Tech into process automation roles. · Oversee structured knowledge transfer from departing staff; ensure all critical processes, tacit knowledge, and troubleshooting guides are documented, video-recorded, and stored in a centralized knowledge base. · Design and deliver onboarding and training for new hires and short-term contractors using paired shadowing, SOP walkthroughs, and hands-on assessment. · Foster a culture of attention to detail, continuous learning, and ownership. Procurement and Supply Chain Coordination · Partner with the Procurement Contractor to ensure suppliers deliver on time and to specification. · Review and approve purchase orders; track delivery schedules and escalate delays. · Coordinate with logistics partners (DHL, Exporter Services) to ensure timely, compliant shipment of products to customers. · Maintain visibility on global supply chain risks and mitigation strategies. Inventory and Stock Management (oversight) · Oversee real-time inventory management through E-Max ERP alongside the Stock/Logistics Person. · Maintain optimal stock levels for components, work-in-progress, and finished goods. · Monitor finished goods warehouse staging and customer order fulfilment. ERP and Systems Administration · Manage and maintain data integrity within E-Max ERP, train team members on best practices. · Interface with Freshdesk for product support and return/repair workflows. · Escalate system improvements or troubleshooting to IT as needed. Strategic and Continuous Improvement · Participate in senior management meetings to communicate production status, risks, and capability improvements. · Identify opportunities for process automation, labour efficiency, and cost reduction without compromising quality. · Contribute to capacity planning and resource forecasting as production scales. Key Competencies and Experience Required Essential Experience · Minimum 7–10 years in production or manufacturing management, preferably in electro-mechanical, aerospace, automotive, medical device, or advanced consumer electronics environments. · Proven experience managing small, high-performance teams in lean or startup environments; ability to wear multiple hats and adapt quickly. · Deep familiarity with assembly, testing, and calibration workflows for complex, precision products with serialization and traceability requirements. · Hands-on experience with ERP systems (ideally E-Max, SAP, or equivalent); strong IT literacy and troubleshooting mindset. · Demonstrated expertise in quality management systems (ISO 9001, IEC 62304, or similar) and root-cause analysis methodologies. · Experience in export logistics, customs compliance, and shipping coordination for global markets. · Familiarity with Freshdesk or similar ticketing/support systems for RMA workflows. · Familiarity with product repair workflows and warranty/return management. Desired Skills and Background · Background in AR, VR, optics, or wearable technology hardware. · Knowledge of electronics assembly, PCB handling, and test fixture design. · Experience with agile/lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement (Kaizen, Kanban, APQP). · Familiarity with product repair workflows and warranty/return management. · Experience scaling production from NPI to volume manufacturing. · Strong understanding of health and safety regulations in manufacturing environments. Competencies · Leadership & Influence: Proven ability to inspire, develop, and hold accountable small teams; excellent delegation and conflict resolution. · Technical Acumen: Strong grasp of mechanical/electrical assembly, testing methodologies, and troubleshooting. · Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to documentation, compliance, and quality; zero tolerance for shortcuts. · Problem-Solving: Analytical, methodical approach to identifying and resolving production issues; proactive risk management. · Communication: Clear, professional communication with internal teams, customers, and external logistics partners; excellent written documentation skills. · Adaptability: Comfort with ambiguity and rapid change; ability to prioritize competing demands in a resource-constrained environment. · Integrity & Ownership: Reliable, trustworthy, and personally accountable for delivery and quality; transparency in reporting.