Production Manager
CRP Group are working with a business that continues to experience strong and positive growth, they are expanding their management team and looking to recruit an Production manager to support increasing production demands and strategic ambitions. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Production Manager will play a pivotal role in leading and developing our manufacturing operations.
Working within a specialist automotive environment focused on building high-quality buses, this role provides strategic leadership, operational direction, and hands-on mentorship across Production, Warehousing & Material Handling, Quality, Business Improvement, and EHS. The Productions Manager will be central to driving efficiency, enhancing quality, and supporting the business through its next phase of growth.
Key Collaborative Responsibilities
The Production Manager will work in partnership with:
·SEOP/MPS Managed Process: Strengthening communication and alignment between internal functions.
·Manufacturing: Executing production schedules driven by the Master Production Schedule (MPS).
·QSHE: Ensuring people, product, and customers are protected without compromise.
·Business Improvement: Identifying and implementing preventive measures to reduce variation and support consistent performance.
·Engineering: Maintaining robust BOM control and ensuring accuracy across released technical packs.
·Aftercare: Providing resource support to minimise Vehicle Off Road (VOR) time.
·HR: Aligning recruitment with the skills matrix and capacity plan; approving hires as required.
·Payroll: Managing absence, timely return-to-work processes, and escalation of relevant issues.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Performance
·Deliver and exceed key performance targets including:
·Minimising throughput times and driving build efficiency
·Maximising schedule adherence and on-time delivery
·Maintaining and improving quality standards in finished vehicles
·Controlling production costs and indirect overheads
·Leading proactive health and safety management
·Managing and delivering continuous improvement initiatives
Strategic Planning & Pipeline Management
·Act as a key contributor in the Sales, Engineering, Operations & Planning (SEOP) process.
·Assess upcoming pipeline needs and adjust manning levels, skill sets, tooling, and capacity to ensure uninterrupted production.
Master Production Schedule (MPS) Management
·Lead the MPS and shortages review process to minimise short-term operational escapes.
·Create, confirm, and commit to build schedules through structured daily cadence.
Leadership & Continuous Improvement
·Mentor, lead, and develop teams using continuous improvement methodologies.
·Drive a culture of operational discipline, accountability, and problem-solving.
Ideal Candidate Profile
·Strong leadership experience within automotive, bus/coach building, or complex manufacturing environments.
·Proven track record of improving operational performance, efficiency, and quality.
·Excellent communicator with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
·Skilled in MPS, production planning, and continuous improvement tools.
·Committed to safety, people development, and delivering outstanding customer outcomes.