Production Manager
Location: Sudbury, Suffolk
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Market 36 Recruitment are currently recruiting for a Production Manager on behalf of our client based in Sudbury.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and growing engineering business within the aerospace and specialist equipment sector. The role offers long-term progression, with the opportunity to play a key part in the company’s future growth and operational success.
Main Purpose of the Role
The Production Manager will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the production and engineering assembly function, ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing processes.
You will lead a team across production, design, quality, and procurement, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. This role will also focus heavily on continuous improvement, commercial performance, and supporting the business as it continues to grow and diversify its product offering.
Roles & Responsibilities
Production & Operations Management
Plan, coordinate, and schedule engineering production activities to meet output, quality, and delivery targets
Ensure production schedules are achieved efficiently and on time
Oversee procurement processes to ensure value for money and accuracy
Liaise with internal departments to ensure materials, parts, and services are available
Team Leadership
Lead, develop, and manage a team of approximately 15 staff across production and engineering (including 2 supervisors)
Set clear objectives and conduct regular performance reviews
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement
Process Improvement & Performance
Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs
Analyse production data to identify trends and drive optimisation
Support business growth through improved operational performance
Quality & Compliance
Ensure all products meet strict aerospace quality standards and specifications
Maintain compliance with health & safety regulations and company policies
Support audits and implement corrective actions where required
Additional Responsibilities
Manage labour, materials, and equipment to maximise production efficiency
Oversee purchasing and ensure accurate and timely procurement of materials
Act as a key point of contact for engineering and supplier queries
Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and engineering change processes
Provide updates to senior management on production schedules and revenue targets
Act as a conduit for purchase order approvals and ensure accuracy across systems
Work closely with commercial teams to ensure projects are delivered profitably
Experience, Skills & Qualifications
Proven experience within a production or manufacturing engineering environment
Strong leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams
Background in small batch or bespoke manufacturing (1–5 unit builds)
Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and assembly instructions
Experience within machine building, automated equipment, pneumatic or hydraulic systems (desirable)
Strong commercial awareness with experience managing costs and profitability
Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
Strong communication skills with the ability to engage both shop floor and office-based teams
Time-served engineering background with circa 15–20 years industry experience preferred
Working Pattern & Benefits
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 17:00
Salary: Competitive (dependent on experience)
Benefits:
Clear long-term career progression
Opportunity to take on wider operational responsibility (including production leadership)
Work within a well-established and growing engineering business
Supportive leadership team and collaborative working environment
Market 36 Recruitment Ltd cover a range of sectors including Commercial, Industrial, Engineering, HR & Finance and IT. This vacancy is being advertised by Market 36 Recruitment Ltd. We operate as an Employment Business for temporary roles and as an Employment Agency for permanent roles