Manager, Production Front Line in Farnborough

Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar‑powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr. Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time. Its current flight‑time record of over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60,000+ft, or 20km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct‑to‑device connectivity and high‑resolution Earth observation. AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most of air traffic and low‑Earth orbit, Stratospace. This is where high‑altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities. Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. You’ll be part of a highly‑skilled, innovative and passionate group of people – Team AALTO. Together, we can Unlock Stratospace.

Job Purpose

The Manager, Production Front Line is responsible for leading day‑to‑day manufacturing operations within an aerospace production environment, ensuring the safe, compliant, high‑quality, and on‑time delivery of components and assemblies. The role focuses on effectively deploying production plans at the Cell/Team level, optimising resources, coordinating front‑line activities, and embedding continuous improvement within daily operations to consistently meet cost, quality, and delivery targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Production Front Line Management & Tactical Planning: Translate the Master Production Schedule into detailed daily and weekly build plans. Coordinate and oversee manufacturing activities to achieve OTIF targets. Monitor build progress, identify risks to delivery, and implement mitigation plans. Allocate labour and skills effectively to optimise throughput and minimise bottlenecks. Support short‑to‑medium‑term capacity planning and resource forecasting. Track and report KPIs including delivery performance, quality metrics, productivity, and safety. Drive workflow improvements to reduce waste and improve efficiency. Support new product introduction (NPI) and low‑volume or prototype builds where required.
• Front‑Line Leadership & Team Management: Provide day‑to‑day leadership, direction, and technical support to Cell Leaders and the production team, with direct line responsibility for the Cell Leads. Lead by example with visible shop‑floor presence and high standards. Create a high‑performance, accountable, and inclusive team culture. Conduct regular one‑to‑ones, performance reviews, and development discussions. Coach, mentor, and upskill cell leaders and facilitate training of technical staff. Monitor workload distribution and ensure clear accountability for deliverables. Recognise achievement and address underperformance promptly and fairly. Encourage open communication, collaboration, and continuous feedback.
• Operational & Technical Oversight: Oversee assembly, integration, wiring, and testing activities in line with engineering drawings and work instructions. Ensure strict adherence to aerospace standards and documented processes. Support detailed manufacturing activities where required, including fault diagnosis and problem resolution. Ensure accurate completion of production and test documentation for full traceability. Maintain high standards of housekeeping, 6S, and FOD control. Ensure compliance within ESD‑controlled and regulated manufacturing environments.
• Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance: Ensure full compliance with AS9100, ISO, FAA/EASA (as applicable), and internal quality systems. Promote a right‑first‑time and zero‑defect culture. Partner with Quality to manage non‑conformances and corrective actions. Lead root cause investigations and implement sustainable corrective actions. Maintain audit readiness and support internal and external audits.
• Health, Safety & Environmental Leadership: Promote and maintain a safe and compliant working environment. Ensure adherence to Health & Safety, COSHH, Human Factors, Tool Control, and environmental standards. Conduct regular safety reviews and proactively address risks. Champion continuous improvement initiatives relating to safety and operational standards.
• Reporting & Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Provide regular performance updates to Production Management. Communicate risks, constraints, and mitigation plans clearly and proactively. Liaise with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality to ensure material availability, technical clarity, and issue resolution. Use production data and metrics to drive informed decision‑making.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a manufacturing or production leadership role within aerospace or a highly regulated industry.
• Strong hands‑on background in assembly, integration, or testing within a precision environment.
• Demonstrated experience delivering against production schedules and OTIF targets.
• Experience leading or mentoring technical teams.
• Working knowledge of aerospace quality systems (AS9100, ISO standards).
• Strong understanding of ESD‑controlled environments and compliance standards.
• Excellent problem‑solving and root cause analysis capability.
• Ability to work to strict deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good IT literacy including ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma knowledge.
• Experience in cell‑based or pulse‑line production systems.
• IOSH / NEBOSH qualification.
• Experience in low‑volume, high‑complexity or prototype manufacturing.
• Tool control management experience.
• Formal supervisory or leadership training.
• Additional leadership or continuous improvement certifications desirable.

Qualifications

• Aerospace or Engineering Full Apprenticeship.
• NVQ Level 3 in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent technical discipline.
• Additional leadership or continuous improvement certifications desirable.

The environment includes exposure to machinery, noise, and regulated manufacturing conditions. Occasional travel may be required for audits, supplier visits, or training.

Benefits

At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values your well‑being and rewards your dedication. As part of our team, you will experience the freedom of flexible working that enables you to achieve a healthy work‑life balance. We believe in recognizing your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability.

AALTO HAPS Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.