At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations and oversee production processes for railway components.
- Company: Join Transport for London, a key player in London's transport system.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel on TfL, 30 days leave, and a final salary pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving innovation and safety.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or significant experience in manufacturing management required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Palestra, London Underground Ltd
Company: TfL, GLA or OPDC
Welcome to Transport for London Careers. Take a look at job opportunities with us and you may be surprised at what you discover: a rich heritage, a commercial outlook, an iconic brand, a unique public service. It all adds up to make Transport for London a great place to develop your career. Here you can start your journey!
Key Information
- Contract: Permanent
- Location: London (primarily depots in Acton and West Kensington)
- Closing Date: Wednesday 5th August 2026 @ 23:59
- Note: You may be required to undertake on call responsibility as a part of this role
Job Purpose
Transport for London’s Manufacturing business unit provides a wide range of manufacturing and overhaul activities to enable our safe and financially sustainable operation. We are one of London’s largest manufacturing businesses employing around 600 highly skilled people, and are growing. We are part of the Asset Maintenance and Renewals (AMR) directorate within London Underground, but are here to supply the breadth of TfL’s operations and external customers.
The Manufacturing Manager is one of two senior roles responsible for leading manufacturing operations– including overhauling, manufacturing and fabricating railway points and crossings, carpentry, plant equipment and a wide range of train components including electronics, electro-mechanical and pneumatics - from wheels, brakes and motors, through radios and door motors to signalling equipment – alongside train, locomotive and wagon overhauls.
As part of that growth, we are looking for someone to oversee end-to-end management of production processes and multiple operational facilities, ensuring safety, asset quality, cost and delivery requirements are met. This role involves strategic oversight of and responsibility for capacity planning, budgetary control, forecasting, scheduling, manufacturing make-or-buy decisions, tendering for work from outside parties and leading a diverse, multidisciplinary team to meet business objectives and regulatory requirements. The postholder will need to ensure efficient and compliant operations while driving innovation and continuous improvement ensuring the manufacturing facilities are value for money and of course provide strong visible leadership as part of an inclusive SMT in Manufacturing and more widely in TfL.
It’s a challenging job, but one that is very rewarding, and we are looking for someone who can complement our existing senior team, build on our heritage, experience and the skills of our team as we evolve and grow to meet the current and future needs of TfL.
Key Accountabilities
- Responsible for the delivery and overhaul of Train, Signalling, Engineering Vehicle, Plant equipment and Track Carpentry in compliance with customer specifications and LU engineering standards, ensuring work plans are adapted where necessary to meet operational demands / standards.
- Accountable for the delivery of multiple business critical activities in partnership with Maintenance and Capital Projects by adopting continuous improvement methodologies to drive efficiencies in time, reliability, safety and budget.
- To lead by example ensuring appropriate standards are met for the management of safety and risk, compliance with statutory obligations whilst embedding the vision and culture to improve safety year on year across the network upholding the prevention of all injuries or harm to customers, employees and others as a core company value.
- Accountable for being an authentic role model for diversity and inclusion. Driving positive and progressive change within the team to achieve measurable improvements in diversity and inclusion.
- Lead and manage key stakeholder relationships of varying complexity and diversity across AMR, the wider TfL network and relevant external partners.
- Coach and build colleagues capability to engage effectively, while actively sharing best practice and industry trends, bringing insights back into AMR to strengthen delivery and support continuous improvement.
- Lead the implementation of new production processes and products, ensuring that approved developments by the Business Development manager are translated into effective, reliable, and scalable manufacturing operations.
- Responsible for the visible and adaptive leadership of multiple operational sites, expectation to lead a diverse number of teams with differing skill-sets and specialisms.
Knowledge
- A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering discipline and/or demonstrable, significant experience of managing delivery of works at a Senior Level within a Manufacturing / workshop environment.
- In-depth knowledge of Operational Manufacturing overhaul activities. Strong business focus with commitment to driving performance, reliability and financial efficiency.
- In-depth knowledge of relevant health and safety legislation, guidance and good practice.
- Knowledge of relevant procurement; managing contractual and supplier interfaces; legal aspects; financial management and controls.
- Awareness of how to effectively operate in a complex industrial relations (IR) environment.
- Knowledge and application of driving a collaborative team, ensuring a strong focus on open and honest conversations.
Skills
- Strong, inclusive and inspirational leadership skills at a senior level to ensure effective team development and address challenges/barriers that impact on people leadership.
- Proven ability to communicate with colleagues at all levels, including both external and internal stakeholders.
- Strong business/financial acumen and commercial awareness in relation to delivery of operational business plans.
- Ability to speedily analyse complex operational situations and formulate appropriate plans and projects to drive improvement. Utilising data and structured problem solving techniques.
- Commitment to continue embedding a continuous improvement culture within the Manufacturing department.
- Adaptive approach with the ability to operate holistically in the context of being part of a wider organisation.
- Ability to assess priorities and understand the best use of available resources within the team.
Experience
- Proven experience of manufacturing management in an equivalent scale (railways or similar sector would be an advantage).
- Proven leadership and management experience of managing performance through multi-disciplined teams in an operational and fast-paced environment.
- Proven track record in the effective control of large scale budgets and deployment of specialist Manufacturing teams.
- Delivery of comprehensive operational plans and related business plans.
- Experience of working within a complex multi-union environment.
- Successful delivery of change initiatives (people, processes and technology) in the context of financial challenge in an operational environment.
- Prior experience of managing a multitude of complex internal and external stakeholder relationships.
- Experience of the practical application and benefits of Continuous Improvement methodologies to empower colleagues to identify and resolve complex business issues.
Equality and Diversity
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We want to represent the city we serve, which will help us become a more innovative and efficient organisation. Our goal is to make our recruitment as inclusive as possible. We are a disability confident employer who guarantee an interview to any disabled candidate who meets all of the essential criteria. We also use anonymising software that removes identifying information from CVs and cover letters to make the process fair.
Benefits
- Final salary pension scheme
- Free travel for you on the TfL network
- Reimbursement of 75% of the cost of a standard class Ticket for National Rail travel from home or 75% reimbursement on a 28-day flexi ticket
- 30 days annual leave plus public and bank holidays
- TfL is committed to work-life balance, operating a hybrid working approach where business and role requirements allow
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme
- Retail, health, leisure and travel offers
- Discounted Eurostar travel
Manufacturing Manager in London employer: Future of London
Transport for London (TfL) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to employee growth, TfL provides opportunities for professional development while ensuring a healthy work-life balance through hybrid working arrangements. Employees enjoy generous benefits, including free travel on the TfL network, a final salary pension scheme, and a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, making it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Manager 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!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
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 Future of London, 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 Manager 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 Future of London 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 Future of London
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Future of London, 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 Future of London 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.
