At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development and supplier relationships in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Company: Dynamic company specialising in aluminium and uPVC windows and doors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Join a team that values creativity and efficiency in manufacturing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product innovation and operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Strong fabrication background with commercial experience in product development and costing.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Our client is seeking an experienced Fabrication Operations Manager to provide technical, commercial and operational leadership across its product range. This is not a hands-on fabrication or day-to-day shop-floor management role. The successful candidate must, however, come from a strong fabrication background and be able to use that expertise to guide product, supplier, costing and pricing decisions. The business manufactures and supplies aluminium and uPVC windows, doors and roof systems to trade installers, contractors and developers. Its range includes casement and commercial windows, bifold and sliding doors, entrance doors, rooflights and roof lanterns.
Role purpose
To ensure products are technically viable, commercially sustainable, accurately costed and competitively priced. The role will connect product development, suppliers, purchasing, sales, estimating, technical, production and finance in a fast-paced B2B manufacturing environment.
Key responsibilities
- Review and develop the product range, identifying opportunities for improvement and new product introduction.
- Use fabrication knowledge to assess manufacturability, materials, tooling, capacity, quality risks and commercial viability.
- Build strong relationships with system houses and suppliers, reviewing pricing, service, quality, lead times and commercial terms.
- Develop accurate product costings and recommend competitive pricing that protects margin.
- Prepare clear commercial recommendations for product changes, supplier decisions and launches.
- Work across sales, estimating, technical, purchasing, production and finance to ensure decisions are implemented effectively.
- Support product compliance and monitor margins, supplier performance, pricing accuracy and quality.
- Identify opportunities to reduce avoidable cost, waste and complexity without compromising customer service.
Candidate profile
Essential experience and knowledge
- A strong fabrication or manufacturing background within windows, doors, façades or a closely related product area.
- Technical knowledge of understanding how product, material and design decisions affect manufacture, quality and cost.
- Experience of aluminium systems, uPVC products, fenestration standards, product-data systems or working with trade customers.
- Commercial experience involving some combination of product development, suppliers, costing, pricing or margin management.
- Strong communication and numerical skills, with the credibility to work across production, technical, sales and senior management teams.
Fabrication Operations Manager employer: Porterhouse Recruitment
Join a well-established manufacturer in the fenestration industry as an Aftersales Administrator in Watford, where you will thrive in a supportive team environment dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service. With competitive salary offerings and a Monday to Friday work schedule, this role not only provides a chance to utilise your technical expertise but also offers opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic and collaborative workplace. Experience the satisfaction of resolving customer issues efficiently while being part of a company that values its employees and fosters a culture of excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fabrication Operations Manager
✨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 Porterhouse 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 Fabrication Operations Manager
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 Porterhouse 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 Porterhouse Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Porterhouse 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 Porterhouse 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.
