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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations and workforce planning for a major Defence and Aerospace manufacturer.
- Company: Join a leading Defence and Aerospace manufacturer driving next-gen production growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and potential relocation support.
- Why this job: Be part of a critical leadership role with direct influence on future production capacity.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in high-output manufacturing and experience managing large mixed workforces required.
- Other info: SC clearance or eligibility is necessary for this secure sector role.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 132000 £ per year.
Meritus are supporting a large Defence and Aerospace manufacturer preparing for a significant production ramp up tied to next generation programmes. As part of this growth, they are seeking a Director of Manufacturing Operations to lead all aspects of production delivery, workforce planning, and contractor integration at site level.
Key Responsibilities
- Own site level manufacturing operations across multiple product lines with strict delivery schedules.
- Lead and optimise the integration of permanent and contract labour to meet throughput goals. Previous experience of handling a large contract workforce is required.
- Build a scalable manufacturing model in line with projected output increases over the next 18-24 months.
- Work closely with Programme Management, Engineering, and Quality to ensure on time, in spec production.
- Drive lean manufacturing initiatives while ensuring full labour compliance and contractor oversight.
- Develop and execute a strategic workforce plan aligned with business demand and customer milestones.
- Support the introduction of automation, new lines, and industrialisation activity.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven leadership in high mix, high output electronics and/or precision manufacturing.
- Track record of managing large mixed workforces (perm + contract) across demanding production environments.
- Comfortable operating in secure, regulated sectors (defence, aerospace, critical infrastructure).
- Strong working knowledge of lean principles, OEE, and workforce efficiency models.
- Strategic thinker who can also drive day to day operational delivery.
- SC clearance or eligibility required.
Package & Progression
This is a critical site leadership role reporting into the VP of Operations, with visibility at the board level and a direct influence on long term capacity planning. Competitive package including bonus and relocation support where required.
Director of Manufacturing Operations employer: Meritus
Contact Detail:
Meritus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Manufacturing Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the defence and aerospace sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the company or the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in lean manufacturing and automation. Being able to discuss these topics intelligently during interviews will demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing large mixed workforces. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully integrated permanent and contract labour in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company's current projects and future plans. Understanding their strategic goals will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Manufacturing Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in manufacturing operations, particularly in high mix, high output environments. Emphasise your leadership roles and any experience with large mixed workforces.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role. Mention specific examples of how you've driven lean manufacturing initiatives or managed contractor integration in previous positions.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your knowledge of lean principles, OEE, and workforce efficiency models. Use specific metrics or achievements to demonstrate your strategic thinking and operational delivery capabilities.
Showcase Security Clearance: If you have SC clearance or eligibility, make sure to mention it prominently in your application. This is a critical requirement for the role and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Meritus
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your leadership in high mix, high output environments. Highlight how you've successfully managed large mixed workforces and the impact of your decisions on production outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Lean Principles
Familiarise yourself with lean manufacturing concepts and be ready to explain how you've implemented these principles in past roles. Discuss any measurable improvements in efficiency or productivity that resulted from your initiatives.
✨Understand the Importance of Compliance
Given the regulated nature of the defence and aerospace sectors, be prepared to talk about your experience with compliance and oversight. Share how you ensure that both permanent and contract labour adhere to industry standards.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As a strategic thinker, you should be ready to discuss your approach to workforce planning and capacity management. Think about how you would align operational delivery with business demand and customer milestones, and be ready to share your vision.
