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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations and improve efficiency in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a thriving sheet metal manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a hands-on leadership role.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing production processes and leading a dedicated team.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and MRP/ERP knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can manage both production performance and wider operational processes within a busy sheet metal manufacturing business. You’ll play a key role in improving efficiency, delivery performance and reducing reliance on company directors.
Role Purpose
To take full responsibility for both the day-to-day production operation and wider business operations, ensuring jobs move efficiently from quotation handover through production to dispatch. This role will oversee shop floor performance, production planning, materials, systems, and operational efficiency while reducing reliance on directors for day-to-day decision making. The successful candidate will bring structure, accountability, and leadership across the business while maintaining strong customer service and delivery performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage daily production activities using MRP system (MIETrak)
- Plan, schedule, and prioritise workflow across laser cutting, press brake, fabrication, welding, finishing, and assembly
- Ensure jobs are completed on time and to required quality standards
- Identify production bottlenecks and implement solutions
- Manage production capacity and labour planning
- Improve workflow efficiency across departments
- Oversee purchasing of raw materials and subcontract services
- Manage stock levels and material availability
- Coordinate dispatch and delivery schedules
- Maintain supplier relationships
- Ensure operational systems are running effectively
- Improve business processes and reduce waste/costs
- Support long-term capacity planning
Leadership & People Management
- Lead shop floor supervisors/team leaders
- Manage employee performance, attendance, and productivity
- Provide strong day-to-day leadership
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and staff development
- Create accountability across departments
MRP / Systems Management
- Take ownership of MIETrak
- Ensure jobs are accurately loaded, tracked, and closed off
- Improve use of system data for operational planning
- Ensure accurate production reporting
Customer & Commercial Support
- Work closely with estimating/sales team on lead times
- Communicate realistic delivery dates to customers
- Resolve operational/customer issues quickly
- Support business growth by improving operational capacity
Continuous Improvement
- Monitor labour utilisation
- Monitor machine utilisation
- Monitor delivery performance
- Monitor job profitability
- Monitor production lead times
- Implement lean improvements
- Reduce inefficiencies and downtime
Health, Safety & Quality
- Ensure compliance with health & safety requirements
- Maintain quality standards
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives
Ideal Candidate
- Strong background in sheet metal fabrication/manufacturing
- Experience with laser, press brake, fabrication and welding environments
- Previous experience in both production and operational leadership
- Strong MRP/ERP experience (MIETrak ideal)
- Commercial awareness
- Strong leadership ability
- Hands-on problem solver
- Able to work in fast-paced SME environment
Manufacturing Operations Manager in Stockport employer: Cheshire Specialist Engineering Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cheshire Specialist Engineering Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Operations Manager in Stockport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the manufacturing sector, especially those who work with MRP systems or in sheet metal fabrication. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've improved production efficiency or solved operational issues in the past. We want to see that hands-on leadership in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly helps us see your application faster. Plus, it’s a great way to show you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Operations Manager in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your background in sheet metal fabrication and any leadership roles you've held, as this will show us you're a great fit for the Manufacturing Operations Manager position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your experience aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your hands-on approach and any successes you've had in improving operational efficiency.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled production bottlenecks or improved workflow efficiency in previous roles. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to think on their feet and implement effective solutions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This way, we can ensure your application is processed smoothly and you get the best chance to shine in front of our hiring team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheshire Specialist Engineering Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sheet metal fabrication and the specific processes mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with MIETrak and be ready to discuss how you've used similar systems in the past.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your leadership experience, especially in managing production teams and improving operational efficiency. Think about times when you’ve successfully resolved conflicts or motivated your team to meet tight deadlines.
✨Be a Problem Solver
Expect questions about how you would handle production bottlenecks or improve workflow efficiency. Have a few strategies in mind that demonstrate your hands-on approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since customer service is key, practice articulating how you would manage customer expectations and resolve issues quickly. Clear communication is vital, so be prepared to discuss how you keep all stakeholders informed throughout the production process.