Production Manager
Kettering, Northamptonshire
Up to £50,000 per annum (DOE)
37.5 hours per week
About the Company
A long-established and highly respected UK-based engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking a Production Manager to join its specialist equipment division.
The business designs and manufactures precision testing machinery used internationally across a range of industries. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, the company supplies equipment to global customers and supply chains.
Role Overview
The Production Manager will take responsibility for end-to-end production operations, ensuring products are delivered on time, to quality standards, and in line with commercial objectives.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a strong engineering background, proven production management experience, and the ability to balance operational delivery with commercial awareness.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Planning & Delivery
Oversee full delivery lifecycle from order intake through to installation, commissioning, and service
Drive improvements in delivery performance and operational efficiency
Lead cross-functional planning across engineering, production, procurement, and service teams
Ensure visibility of capacity, priorities, and risks
Production & Service Management
Manage team leads across:
Design (mechanical, electrical, software/firmware)
Production and assembly
Electrical build, calibration, and commissioning
Service and technical support
Warehousing and fulfilment
Ensure adherence to quality standards and operational processes
Monitor and escalate issues relating to design, suppliers, production, or components
Commercial & Financial Awareness
Support achievement of financial targets through operational decision-making
Identify and reduce inefficiencies and cost leakage
Collaborate with sales and logistics teams to optimise margin and delivery
Contribute to operational input for wider business strategy
Customer & Market Support
Support development of service offerings, upgrades, and aftermarket services
Provide technical input into marketing materials and product positioning
Work closely with customer-facing teams to resolve issues efficiently
Leadership & Development
Lead, coach, and develop team leaders and operational staff
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer focus
Support training, skills development, and succession planning
Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Continuous Improvement & Compliance
Drive process improvements while maintaining operational efficiency
Ensure strong communication between departments (engineering, production, sales, quality, procurement)
Support compliance with relevant machinery regulations and certification standards (e.g. CE/UKCA)
Maintain audit readiness for quality and calibration processes
Candidate Requirements
Essential
Degree or equivalent qualification in mechanical and/or electrical engineering
Minimum 5 years experience in a senior production or engineering leadership role
Experience managing both design and manufacturing teams
Strong planning, coordination, and problem-solving capabilities
Commercial awareness (cost control, margins, customer impact)
Experience with ERP systems
Background in low-volume, high-value manufacturing environments
Knowledge of machinery regulations (UK/EU/international)
Right to work in the UK
Desirable
Experience with Microsoft Dynamics / Business Central ERP
Exposure to P&L accountability
Knowledge of IoT or emerging technologies
Experience in precision capital equipment manufacturing
Involvement in business development or product marketing
Personal Attributes
Practical and delivery-focused approach
Able to balance technical, commercial, and people priorities
Calm under pressure with strong prioritisation skills
Proactive mindset with a continuous improvement approach
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Interest in technology and innovation
Ambition to progress into broader operational leadership
Benefits
2530 days annual leave (service-based)
Company pension scheme
Life assurance
Income protection
Flexible working hours
Free on-site parking
Potential for international travel
Recruitment Process
Closing date: 6 June 2026
First stage interviews (Teams): 16 June 2026
Final stage interviews (on-site): 24 June 2026
Interested? Please click apply
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