Head of Manufacturing

Jim Lawrence Traditional Ironworks are a family run manufacturing business based in Hadleigh, specialising in lighting and home interiors. We are seeking a Head of Manufacturing to lead the development and execution of strategies to drive productivity innovation and sustainable growth through process optimisation, technology integration and strategic planning. You will be a valuable member of the Senior Management Team, directing on strategy, driving continuous improvement and being a role model for the wider business. Key areas of responsibility – * Work alongside the Head of Production to address production bottlenecks, ensure planning schedules are met and resources are efficiently allocated. * Develop and implement strategies to optimise production processes and engineering work flows. * Align production and engineering goals, focussing on cost efficiency, innovation and sustainability. * Lead the engineering team in designing, maintaining and improving production systems and equipment. * Drive innovation in product design and manufacturing processes to ensure scalability and quality. * Oversee compliance within industry standards, safety regulations and quality certifications. * Inspire a quality culture across the business by managing all the quality processes across product development, production, supplier inspections and customer returns. * Conduct root cause analysis to address operation inefficiencies and implement corrective actions. * Responsible for all Operations at secondary site in Clare. * Champion Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma and other continuous improvement methodologies. * Manage budgets for production and engineering, ensuring cost-effective solutions. * Take responsibility for all machinery/engineering purchases, maintenance and servicing. * Create and monitor KPI’s for productivity, quality and cost. * Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing Design, QC and Engineering team by developing and maintaining a culture of continuous learning and innovation. * Develop a succession plan to meet future production needs. Essential experience and skills – * Proven experience in a leadership role within production and engineering. * Track record in strategy development and execution. * Strong analytical and decision-making abilities. * Excellent knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering principles and project management. * Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma and process optimisation * Proven IT skills in ERP systems, CAD software and production planning tools. * Strategic thinker and planner. * Great communications skills, comfortable on shopfloor and office environment * Demonstrable people management skills with the ability to balance multiple people challenges of varying complexities. Desirable – * Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Production Management or a relation field. Benefits – – Enhanced Annual Leave of 25 days plus bank holidays – Company pension 3% to 5% – Free on-site parking – Health & wellbeing programme – Referral programme – 40% Employee Discount – Company Sick Pay Schedule – 8 hours shift – 08:30 – 17:00 Monday to Friday On site Salary depending on experience