At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the setup of a battery pack manufacturing facility and oversee daily operations.
- Company: Join a pioneering company focused on high-performance battery pack manufacturing for diverse applications.
- Benefits: Flexible remote working up to 2 days a week and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Role based at the UK Head Office with some expected travel.
- Why this job: Shape the future of battery technology in a rapidly growing start-up environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering with 8-10 years in manufacturing leadership, particularly in battery systems.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Manufacturing Director will lead the establishment, scale-up and operational management of a high-performance battery pack manufacturing business focused on low-to-medium volume production (50–5,000 units annually per product) for marine, industrial and automotive applications. This role is responsible for building the manufacturing organisation from the ground up — including facility setup, team recruitment, production systems, manufacturing engineering, quality systems, supply chain coordination, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will drive the transition from prototype builds through to repeatable production manufacture of battery packs ranging from 60V to 800V using cylindrical and pouch cell technologies. As a key member of the leadership team reporting directly to the CEO, the Manufacturing Director will play a critical role in shaping company strategy, culture, manufacturing capability, and operational scalability.
Key Responsibilities
- Manufacturing Strategy & Facility Development: Lead the setup and commissioning of a new battery pack manufacturing facility, including layout, workflow optimisation, equipment specification, utilities, EHS requirements, and production readiness. Develop scalable manufacturing processes capable of supporting prototype, pre-production, and low-to-medium volume production programmes. Establish manufacturing standards, procedures, work instructions, and production documentation. Define and implement manufacturing KPIs focused on quality, cost, delivery, safety, and productivity. Support business growth planning, facility expansion, and future manufacturing scalability.
- Team Leadership & Organisational Development: Recruit, develop and lead a multidisciplinary manufacturing team, growing from an initial single employee operation to approximately 20 employees. Build a high-performance manufacturing culture focused on accountability, safety, collaboration, continuous improvement, and technical excellence. Establish organisational structures, roles, training plans, and performance management processes. Mentor and develop manufacturing engineers, technicians, production operators, and support staff.
- Production & Operations Management: Oversee daily manufacturing operations including prototype builds, pilot production, and serial manufacture. Ensure production schedules are achieved while maintaining quality and safety standards. Drive operational efficiency improvements through Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies. Implement production planning and inventory control systems appropriate for low-volume, high-mix manufacturing. Co-ordinate manufacturing readiness for new product introduction (NPI) activities.
- Battery Pack Manufacturing & Engineering: Support manufacturing process development for high-voltage battery pack assembly using cylindrical and pouch cells. Ensure safe handling, assembly, testing, and validation of high-voltage battery systems from 60V to 800V. Collaborate closely with engineering teams on DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) initiatives. Support development of battery pack assembly techniques including welding, bonding, thermal management integration, BMS integration, HV harnessing, and end-of-line testing. Ensure robust traceability systems are implemented for battery cells, components, and assemblies.
- Quality, Safety & Compliance: Establish and maintain quality management systems aligned with automotive, marine, and industrial industry standards. Develop manufacturing controls and inspection processes to ensure product reliability and compliance. Lead EHS strategy for manufacturing including HV safety, battery handling protocols, fire risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. Support certification and compliance activities including UN38.3, ISO9001, IATF16949 readiness, CE/UKCA, marine approvals, and customer-specific requirements. Lead root cause analysis and corrective action processes for manufacturing and quality issues.
- Supply Chain & Supplier Management: Work with procurement and engineering teams to establish robust supply chains for cells, BMS, electronics, mechanical components, and production tooling. Support supplier qualification, process audits, and supplier development activities. Manage manufacturing input requirements including materials planning, inventory management, and production tooling. Support customer programme reviews, technical discussions, and manufacturing readiness activities. Contribute to business development activities where manufacturing capability and scalability are key customer considerations. Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, commercial, programme management, and leadership teams.
Qualifications, Experience and Skills Required
- Degree qualified in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related discipline.
- Minimum 8–10 years' experience in manufacturing leadership roles within battery systems, automotive, electrification, aerospace, marine, or related high-reliability industries.
- Proven experience establishing or scaling manufacturing operations in a start-up or rapidly growing environment.
- Strong understanding of battery pack manufacturing processes for lithium-ion systems.
- Experience with high-voltage systems and associated safety requirements.
- Demonstrated experience leading teams and building manufacturing organisations.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and production system implementation.
- Experience with prototype and low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environments.
- Excellent project management and organisational skills.
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability.
- Commercial awareness with understanding of manufacturing cost drivers and operational efficiency.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Qualifications, Experience and Skills Preferred
- Experience manufacturing battery packs using both cylindrical and pouch cell formats.
- Experience within marine, off-highway, industrial vehicle, motorsport, defence, or specialist automotive sectors.
- Knowledge of automated and semi-automated battery pack assembly processes.
- Experience implementing ERP/MRP systems within manufacturing operations.
- Familiarity with industry standards such as ISO9001, IATF16949, ISO14001, and UN38.3.
- Six Sigma, Lean, or operational excellence certification.
- Experience managing NPI and APQP processes.
- Understanding of thermal management systems and battery testing methodologies.
- Experience working with contract manufacturers or international supply chains.
Role specific knowledge
- Lithium-ion battery technologies and cell formats.
- High-voltage battery pack architecture and assembly.
- Battery Management Systems (BMS) integration.
- HV safety standards and safe working practices.
- Production process design and manufacturing engineering.
- Prototype build environments and transition to production.
- Low-volume/high-mix manufacturing operations.
- Manufacturing quality systems and traceability.
- End-of-line testing and validation systems.
- Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Industrialisation and scaling of manufacturing operations.
- Regulatory and compliance requirements for battery systems across automotive, marine, and industrial sectors.
Personal Attributes
- Entrepreneurial mindset with strong start-up mentality.
- Hands-on leadership style with willingness to work operationally when required.
- Highly driven, self-motivated, and results oriented.
- Strong technical curiosity and problem-solving capability.
- Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire and develop teams.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Pragmatic decision-maker capable of balancing speed, quality, and cost.
- High attention to detail with strong focus on safety and quality.
- Collaborative and team-oriented approach.
- Passion for electrification, battery technology, and advanced manufacturing.
Location and Travel
- You must be eligible to work in the UK and have no restrictions for world-wide travel. We are unable to offer Visa sponsorship.
- This role is based at our Head Office in the UK, with flexibility for remote working up to 2 days a week.
- Working hours are 09h00 to 17h00, 5 days a week, however some travel is expected, and flexible working patterns are essential to the role.
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or background.
Manufacturing Operations Director in London employer: Breath HR
This innovative company is dedicated to establishing a high-performance battery manufacturing business. Located in the UK, they offer flexible working arrangements and are committed to inclusivity. The team is passionate about electrification and advanced manufacturing technologies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Operations Director in London
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
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While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Breath HR, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Operations Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Breath HR specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Breath HR
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Breath HR, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Breath HR value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
