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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate workshop teams to deliver bespoke furniture projects on time and to high standards.
- Company: Join a successful, family-style joinery business in South Manchester known for quality craftsmanship.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 23 days holiday, and a pension plan.
- Why this job: Be part of a close-knit team with hands-on leadership and a strong reputation in the industry.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in bespoke manufacturing; joinery experience preferred; strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: This role offers a mix of workshop and office work, perfect for dynamic leaders.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Production/Workshop Manager
Location: South Manchester (Stockport area)
Salary: £45,000 £50,000 DOE
Job Type: Permanent
About the Company
A small but expanding and highly successful specialist joinery manufacturing business located in South Manchester, employing around 30 staff. The company is a clear market leader in its field, delivering bespoke furniture and full turnkey fit-outs for a range of clients, including retail, hospitality, and high-traffic environments.
The business has a close-knit, family-style culture, with a hands-on leadership team and a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and personal service.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced ProductionManagerto take responsibility for all manufacturing, technical, and on-site activities. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will lead and coordinate the workshop team, CAD department, and installation teams, ensuring projects are delivered on time, to specification, and to the highest quality standards.
This is a hands-on leadership position, split approximately 70% workshop-based and 30% office-based, requiring a balance of operational oversight, problem-solving, and people management.
Key Responsibilities;
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Organise, manage, and motivate workshop and installation staff
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Plan and oversee production schedules to meet client deadlines
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Liaise directly with the Managing Director on project progress and issues
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Maintain and improve ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System compliance
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Ensure health & safety standards are met at all times
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Administer joinery and fit-out contracts, ensuring specifications are complete
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Manage procurement of materials and ensure timely deliveries
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Oversee maintenance of plant, machinery, and workshop facilities
Experience Required;
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Minimum 3 years experience managing bespoke or small batch manufacturing
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Joinery experience is highly advantageous
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Proven leadership experience in a workshop or shopfitting environment
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Strong knowledge of bespoke furniture production and turnkey fit-outs
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Experience liaising with clients, architects, and designers
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Resource planning and scheduling skills
Qualifications
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Management qualifications (desirable)
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Lean / 5S / Continuous Improvement experience (advantageous)
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Basic DBS check required
Key Skills & Attributes
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Hands-on leadership style with a visible workshop presence
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Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
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Ability to manage varied workloads and adapt to changing priorities
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Approachable and personable, with a positive attitude
Salary & Benefits
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£45,000 £50,000 DOE
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23 days holiday including Christmas shutdown
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Pension
Production/Workshop Manager in Stockport employer: GPW Recruitment
Contact Detail:
GPW Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Production/Workshop Manager in Stockport
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the company's projects and clients. Understanding their bespoke furniture and fit-out processes will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network within the joinery and manufacturing community in South Manchester. Attend local industry events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and gain insights into the company culture, which can be beneficial when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Be ready to provide examples of how you've motivated staff and improved production processes, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research ISO 9001:2015 compliance and lean manufacturing principles. Being knowledgeable about these standards will demonstrate your commitment to quality and efficiency, which are key aspects of the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Production/Workshop Manager in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in production management, particularly in bespoke or small batch manufacturing. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific projects that demonstrate your ability to manage teams effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for joinery and bespoke furniture production. Mention your hands-on leadership style and how it aligns with the company's family-style culture. Be sure to address how your skills can contribute to their ongoing success.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your experience with ISO 9001:2015 compliance and health & safety standards. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed production schedules and liaised with clients, architects, and designers in previous roles.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Include specific instances where you've solved problems in a workshop environment. This could involve managing varied workloads or adapting to changing priorities. Demonstrating your problem-solving abilities will resonate well with the hiring team.
How to prepare for a job interview at GPW Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Production/Workshop Manager, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in managing teams, motivating staff, and resolving conflicts. Use specific examples that highlight your hands-on approach and how you foster a positive work environment.
✨Demonstrate Industry Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the joinery and bespoke furniture production industry. Be ready to talk about current trends, challenges, and innovations. This will show your passion for the field and your commitment to staying updated, which is essential for a role that involves liaising with clients and designers.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to production schedules, quality management systems, and health & safety standards. Brush up on ISO 9001:2015 compliance and be ready to explain how you would maintain these standards in the workshop. This demonstrates your technical expertise and attention to detail.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the company's future projects, team dynamics, or how they measure success in this role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values.
