Job Title
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Director of Manufacturing Launch
Ref #
59546
Date posted
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
Location
Woking
Business area
Manufacturing
Department
New Model Launch
Position level
2
Working time
Full Time
Contract type
Permanent
Working pattern
9am - 6pm Monday to Friday
What to Expect
The Manufacturing Launch Director is responsible for leading the successful industrialisation and launch of new automotive programmes from Business Release and pre-production builds through to full-rate manufacturing. The role ensures that all new product introductions (NPI) are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards while meeting customer expectations and business objectives.
Working cross-functionally with Engineering, PMO, Vehicle Line Management, Quality, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Finance, and Customer teams, the Manufacturing Launch Director provides strategic leadership throughout the launch lifecycle, mitigating risk and ensuring operational readiness for production.
The Manufacturing Launch Director is responsible for promoting a strong safety culture and ensuring compliance with all UK Health & Safety legislation, environmental regulations, company policies, and automotive industry standards
What You'll Do
Programme LeadershipEnsure robust virtual series and gateway governance with Vehicle Line Director peers.
Manufacturing ReadinessRisk & Issue ManagementQuality & ComplianceLeadershipLead, coach, and develop Launch Managers and programme teams. Create a high-performance, accountable culture focused on delivery and continuous improvement.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Successful Start of Production (SOP) achievementOn-time launch deliveryBudget adherenceCustomer launch scorecardsFirst Time Through (FTT) performanceScrap and rework levelsProduction ramp-up achievementOverall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) during launchCustomer warranty and quality performanceKey Financial Measures
What You'll Bring
Knowledge, skills & experience: Essential:
Desirable:
IOSH or NEBOSH Health & Safety qualification.
What We'll Do for You
We offer a wide – ranging benefits package, which includes: Structured career development framework25 days' holiday, plus bank holiday. Annual buy & sell up to five daysEnhanced company pension schemeDiscretionary annual bonus awardPrivate medical insurance and health cash planLife assurance benefitAbility to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years' serviceBenefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shoppingGenerous parental leave policiesA range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice
Who Are We?
No restraints. No limitations. We don't simply push boundaries. We completely rethink them. McLaren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.
It takes a community to do what we do. A diverse group of people with many areas of expertise, united by their passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks. McLaren Automotive commits to equal opportunity for all. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion is at the heart of our impact, it drives our innovation and enables us to truly create something special. xohmjla Join us on our journey.
Director of Manufacturing Launch employer: McLaren Group
McLaren Automotive is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and fast-paced work environment in Woking, where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide structured career development, generous benefits including enhanced pension schemes and flexible lifestyle options, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion that fosters a supportive culture. Join our high-performing team and be part of a community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence.
