At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering and manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement and team development.
- Company: Leading UK manufacturer of high-performance suspension systems for motorsport and automotive industries.
- Benefits: Competitive salary from £60,000, hands-on leadership role, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on quality and safety.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in precision engineering and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in engineering management and strong leadership skills required.
Our client is a leading UK manufacturer of high-performance suspension systems for the motorsport, automotive and motorcycle industries. Renowned for engineering excellence, precision manufacturing and innovation, they design and manufacture bespoke shock absorbers and suspension components that are supplied to customers worldwide.
They are now looking to recruit an experienced Engineering Manager to lead their manufacturing operation at their modern production facility in Witney. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for overseeing the day-to-day engineering and manufacturing function, driving continuous improvement, developing production teams, and ensuring products are manufactured to the highest standards of quality, performance and delivery.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day engineering and manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets, quality standards and customer delivery requirements are consistently achieved.
- Manage, motivate and develop Team Leaders and production personnel, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the manufacture and assembly of high-performance suspension products, ensuring adherence to engineering drawings, specifications and build standards.
- Coordinate production activities to ensure bespoke customer orders are manufactured efficiently and delivered on time.
- Balance workloads, labour resources and production schedules to maximise productivity and operational efficiency.
- Identify, implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing processes, workflows and production systems.
- Work closely with Purchasing and Stores to ensure the timely availability of machined components, raw materials and purchased parts.
- Support stock control and inventory management to minimise waste while maintaining production requirements.
- Collaborate with Design and Development teams to support prototype builds, new product introduction (NPI) and continuous product development.
- Monitor manufacturing KPIs, identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions where required.
- Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout machining, assembly, testing, inspection and final dispatch.
- Support the introduction of improved manufacturing systems and reporting processes to enhance production visibility and efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations and maintain a safe, organised and efficient manufacturing environment.
- Report on departmental performance and contribute to the ongoing development and growth of the business.
Ideal Candidate
- Previous experience as an Engineering Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Production Manager, Operations Manager or similar leadership role within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience managing manufacturing teams within precision engineering, motorsport, automotive, performance vehicle, motorcycle, aerospace, or other high-specification manufacturing sectors.
- Strong understanding of precision machining, mechanical assembly and engineering manufacturing processes.
- Experience working with CNC machining, low-volume/high-mix manufacturing, or bespoke engineered products would be highly advantageous.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop production teams while driving performance and accountability.
- Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, 5S, Kaizen or similar operational improvement methodologies.
- Strong understanding of production planning, manufacturing workflows and resource management.
- Experience working closely with purchasing, stores and supply chain functions to support efficient production.
- Ability to analyse manufacturing performance data and make informed operational decisions.
- Excellent communication, leadership and organisational skills.
- Hands-on management style with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
- Passion for engineering, manufacturing excellence and delivering high-quality products.
- Experience within a small to medium-sized engineering manufacturer would be highly advantageous.
Engineering Manager in Witney employer: Jackie Kerr Recruitment
At Jackie Kerr Recruitment, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Junior Estimator in Fordingbridge, you'll benefit from flexible working hours, a generous holiday allowance that increases with service, and the unique opportunity to enjoy a paid sabbatical after six years. Our commitment to training ensures you have the skills needed to thrive in your career while working in a collaborative environment with dedicated professionals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Manager in Witney
✨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 Jackie Kerr Recruitment, 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 Engineering Manager in Witney
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 Jackie Kerr Recruitment 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 Jackie Kerr Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Jackie Kerr Recruitment, 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 Jackie Kerr Recruitment 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.
