Production Manager

Catfoss Recruitment Ltd are currently in partnership with a well-established UK market leader and they are looking to recruit a Production Manager on a permanent basis.

Job Purpose

Responsible for all aspects of manufacturing and the manufacturing team. In a high-volume low-value bespoke printed product environment, ensure that the departmental teams are effectively trained, managed, developed and deployed to meet both customer and company objectives. To actively review performance in a metrics driven environment, driving and supporting continuous improvement programs to achieve manufacturing efficiency at optimal total cost. Optimising throughput and ensuring that operations are aligned with the skills and processes to meet our service delivery lead time objectives. Embrace the fundamental aspects of lean and 'theory of constraints' applying them to high-volume bespoke printed products, while adopting a collaborative and coaching based management approach. Working in conjunction with the Managing Director and other members of the management team to develop and implement strategies and processes that ensure the achievement of key operational results in line with the overall business strategy and in compliance with all relevant legislation.

Key Responsibilities & Critical Success Measures

• Manage all aspects of production in line with KPI targets and achievement of monthly sales targets, by value and volume.
• Establish and execute daily, weekly and monthly production plans to minimise order backlogs and ensure service delivery aligns with agreed KPI targets.
• Provide and deliver clear and concise reporting to relevant stakeholders of manufacturing progress against agreed plans, clearly identifying all risks and mitigations.
• Plan and deliver motivational and inspiring coaching, support, and personal development initiatives for all manufacturing employees in line with company and individual objectives.
• Develop appropriate production metrics to support the achievement of KPI's.
• Ensure compliance and alignment with ISO 9001 and 14001 procedures ensuring accreditations are maintained along with compliance with Health, Safety and Environmental Legislation.
• Work in close collaboration with sales, customer service and e-commerce to support the generation of new sales and product opportunities, while ensuring a timely conversion of sales leads into orders.
• To be an integral and influential member of the senior management team of the business.
• Develop a program to implement aspects of Lean principles, the Theory of Constraints, and 5S where appropriate.
• Collaborate with HR to maintain the employee Training Matrix- create employee development programs, succession plans and performance management objectives.
• To be a driver of change within the business.
• Collaborate with HR to recruit individuals for the production department promoting job applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation or marital status.
• Create and implement operational solutions that drive volume growth to be achieved in the most cost-effective way whilst maximising the asset utilisation.
• Support the Managing Director to develop and deliver the annual operating budget to achieve the long-term business objectives and profitability targets.

Functional Competencies

• Make timely, clear decisions. Take responsibility for actions, projects and people.
• Demonstrate initiative, act with confidence and work under own direction in support of the agreed business objectives and culture.
• Recognise and reward the contribution of others, adapt to the team and build team spirit.
• Actively listen and consult with others, communicate proactively.
• Set clearly defined objectives, plan activities and projects well in advance and take account for potential changing circumstances.
• Track and monitor performance against deadlines and milestones.
• Focus on customer needs and satisfaction.
• Set and maintain high standards for quality and quantity.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience

• Ability to manage high-volume low-value bespoke product mix in a short lead time and quick turnaround from commercial experience gained in a print manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to optimise team performance and development with a collaborative approach.
• Dedicated to focus on continuous improvement, driving change and excellence in the business.
• Excellent knowledge of Environment and Health and Safety legislation and Employment Law in collaboration with the QESH manager to ensure compliance.
• Knowledge of manufacturing IT systems and business planning tools.
• Lean practitioner with a proven track record in continuous improvement and 'theory of constraints'.

Personal Characteristics

• Pragmatic problem solver, with the ability to contend & deliver with conflicting constraints.
• A self-reliant individual who has the interpersonal skills to interact at all levels of the business.
• Engaging and motivating leader who can interact in a positive way both internally and externally.

Please apply ASAP.