At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Machining business unit, driving growth and operational excellence in precision manufacturing.
- Company: Join Mettis Aerospace, a pioneer in precision forged and machined components for over 70 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension contributions, 33 days holiday, and employee wellbeing perks.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity and supports your career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while shaping the future of advanced manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in precision machining with strong P&L accountability.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
About Mettis We design, manufacture and assemble precision forged and machined components at our fully integrated facility in the heart of the UK. Our vision is not only to be the best at what we do but to continually set new standards in the industry by investing and innovating. That’s why we have been pioneers in our industry for over seventy years. We are forging the future today.
About the Role The Head of Business – Machining is accountable for the commercial and operational performance of the Machining business unit, incorporating People, Process, Purpose and Performance. This role carries full ownership for delivery against growth, margin, quality, safety, and delivery objectives within a high‑precision manufacturing environment supporting demanding customer requirements. The role combines P&L responsibility, strategic leadership, and operational credibility across precision machining operations. You will lead strategy execution, customer performance, and operational excellence, ensuring that the business unit delivers sustainable growth while maintaining compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal governance requirements. You will act as a senior leader within the organisation, owning key customer relationships and working cross‑functionally with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and central support functions to ensure alignment with wider group objectives.
As a condition of employment successful candidates are required to satisfy ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance and must fulfil the following before commencing this role:
- Currently hold the legal Right to Work in the UK
- Fulfil a DBS clearance
- Provide a consistent 5‑year UK domicile
- Pass Drugs & Alcohol screening at the start of their Mettis employment
Responsibilities
- Business & Commercial Responsibilities
- Hold P&L accountability for the Machining business unit, including revenue growth, cost control, and margin improvement
- Develop and execute the Machining business strategy in alignment with wider Mettis and group objectives
- Own senior‑level customer relationships, driving account growth, retention, and new business opportunities
- Lead pricing, quotation, and contract review activities to ensure commercial soundness
- Identify and pursue organic growth opportunities, capability enhancements, and targeted investments
- Operational Excellence Responsibilities
- Maintain overall accountability for safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) performance
- Ensure machining operations consistently meet customer quality and delivery expectations
- Drive continuous improvement through lean, operational excellence, and data‑led improvement initiatives
- Lead capacity planning, capital investment cases, and the introduction of new machinery and technology
- Ensure effective production planning, scheduling, and utilisation of resources
- Leadership & People Responsibilities
- Provide visible and consistent leadership to the Machining leadership team and wider workforce
- Establish a performance‑focused culture with clear accountability, engagement, and development
- Develop succession plans and future capability across engineering, operations, and commercial disciplines
- Encourage collaboration across sites and with central support teams
- Governance, Compliance & Risk Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with all Health, Safety, Environmental, regulatory, and customer requirements
- Identify, manage, and mitigate operational, commercial, and supply chain risks
- Maintain effective governance, internal controls, and business assurance processes
- Business Responsibilities
- Act as an ambassador for Mettis with customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders
- Role model the organisation’s Vision, Mission, and Values
- Comply with all Mettis HR policies, procedures, and leadership expectations
Experience
- Essential:
- Senior leadership within precision machining or advanced manufacturing
- Demonstrated P&L ownership with commercial accountability
- Operational background with credibility across CNC machining environments (turning, milling, grinding, etc.)
- Track record of delivering business growth and operational improvement
- Experience working within regulated or high‑specification customer environments
- Desirable:
- Experience within aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, or similarly complex sectors
- Exposure to multi‑site manufacturing operations
- Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent continuous improvement qualification
- Engineering or technical qualification
Required Skills
- Commercial awareness with data‑driven decision‑making capability
- Effective leadership and influencing skills at executive, customer, and workforce level
- Ability to balance strategic planning with hands‑on operational leadership
- High level of customer focus and relationship management capability
- Decisive decision‑making with resilience in pressured environments
- High levels of integrity, accountability, and ownership
Job Type: Full‑time, Permanent
Location: Redditch, Worcestershire (on site, 5 days)
Hours: M‑T 07:30 – 16:30 & F 07:30 – 12:30
Benefits
- Pension: 3% Employer & 5% Employee contribution
- 33 days holiday including 8 statutory Bank Holidays p/a
- Employee benefits, rewards, and wellbeing platform (Perkbox)
- Free on‑site parking
- Cycle to work scheme
- Bereavement leave
- Company events
- Employee referral programme
- Sick pay
This job description is not exhaustive and may be reviewed periodically in agreement with the job holder. The postholder must comply with all policies and procedures issued by or on behalf of Mettis Aerospace.
Equal Opportunity Statement Mettis Aerospace is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Head of Business (Machining) in Worcester employer: Mettis Aerospace
Mettis Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Redditch, Worcestershire, where innovation and precision are at the forefront of aerospace manufacturing. Employees benefit from a strong culture of collaboration, continuous professional development, and opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects that shape the future of the industry. With a commitment to quality and employee growth, Mettis Aerospace provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about engineering excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Business (Machining) in Worcester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Mettis and understanding their values and goals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission of innovation and excellence in precision machining.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership style and operational expertise can drive growth and performance in the Machining business unit. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Mettis team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Business (Machining) in Worcester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Business role. Highlight your experience in precision machining and P&L ownership, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your leadership and operational excellence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for Mettis. Share your passion for innovation in manufacturing and how your values align with ours. Don’t forget to mention any relevant industry experience!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact, like revenue growth or efficiency improvements. We love numbers that tell a story!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mettis Aerospace
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Business – Machining, you'll need to demonstrate your P&L accountability. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven revenue growth and margin improvement in previous roles. Specific examples will show you mean business!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about how you can convey your approach to leading teams. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your ability to establish a performance-focused culture and develop future capabilities within your team.
✨Understand Operational Excellence
Familiarise yourself with lean manufacturing principles and operational excellence strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented continuous improvement initiatives in machining environments and how you ensure safety, quality, and delivery standards are met.
✨Build Customer Relationships
Since you'll be owning senior-level customer relationships, think about how you've successfully driven account growth and retention in the past. Have specific examples ready that illustrate your customer focus and relationship management skills.
