Production & Operations Manager in Milton Keynes

Production & Operations Manager Location:
Slough, Berkshire Salary:
£40,000–£50,000 per annum Job Type:
Full-time, permanent The Opportunity We are recruiting a Production & Operations Manager on behalf of an established specialist manufacturing business operating within the heat treatment and metal processing sector. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced manufacturing professional to take responsibility for day-to-day production and operational performance within a small, close-knit team. The business offers a collaborative working environment where communication, teamwork and a hands-on approach are valued. You will work closely with colleagues across production, quality and management, taking ownership of operational performance and helping to drive improvements throughout the business. The successful candidate will have a strong background in heat treatment, metallurgy, metal processing, precision engineering or a closely related specialist manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Oversee the day-to-day running of production and operational activities. Plan and coordinate production schedules, resources and capacity to meet customer deadlines. Manage, motivate and develop production personnel. Coordinate workflow, labour allocation and equipment utilisation to maximise efficiency. Monitor output, productivity, lead times and on-time delivery performance. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs and minimise waste. Work closely with quality and technical colleagues to maintain process standards. Ensure customer specifications and production requirements are consistently met. Coordinate equipment maintenance and ensure safe working practices are followed. Monitor operational performance and report key metrics to senior management. Implement continuous improvement initiatives across production. Support staff training, development and performance management. Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety procedures and quality management systems. Identify operational challenges and implement practical solutions. Foster a positive team environment built around accountability, communication and shared objectives. Essential Skills & Experience Proven experience in a production, manufacturing or operations management role within heat treatment, metallurgy, metal processing, precision engineering or a closely related specialist engineering environment. A strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production workflow. Experience managing production teams within a technical, process-driven manufacturing business. Demonstrable experience in production planning, scheduling and resource management. A track record of improving productivity, efficiency and delivery performance. Good understanding of quality management systems, process control and health and safety. Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills. A practical, hands-on approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement. The ability to manage competing priorities and meet customer delivery commitments. The ability to work effectively within a small team, contributing operationally as well as managing others. Relevant industry experience is essential.
Candidates with general production management experience outside heat treatment, metal processing or closely related engineering sectors will not be suitable. Desirable Experience Direct experience within a commercial heat treatment environment. Knowledge of furnace operations, nitriding, vacuum heat treatment or other specialist thermal processing techniques. Experience working within an ISO 9001 quality management system. Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, 5S, root cause analysis or similar improvement methodologies. Personal Attributes Approachable, practical and solutions-focused. Comfortable working in a small, close-knit team. Able to lead by example and maintain high standards. Proactive in identifying problems and implementing improvements. Equally comfortable planning ahead and dealing with day-to-day operational challenges. What's on Offer? Salary of £40,000–£50,000 per annum, depending on experience. A key operational leadership position within an established specialist manufacturing business. A friendly, close-knit working environment with direct communication across the business. The opportunity to take ownership of production performance and implement meaningful improvements. A hands-on role where your contribution will have a visible impact. A stable, full-time permanent position with scope to influence operational development. How to Apply If you are an experienced production or operations professional with a background in heat treatment, metal processing or a related engineering sector, and enjoy working in a collaborative, hands-on environment, please get in touch for a confidential discussion.
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