At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production scheduling and manage daily operations in a cutting-edge manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join R E Thompson, a leader in precision aerospace engineering with over 75 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent career growth and team-building events.
- Why this job: Make an impact in aerospace and defence while working with advanced automated systems.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in manufacturing, strong problem-solving skills, and knowledge of lean principles.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead our manufacturing operations at our advanced facility in Andover. You will be responsible for production scheduling, team coordination, and ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and to specification. This role is central to maintaining our reputation for excellence and meeting the demanding requirements of our aerospace and defence customers. You will manage daily operations across our sophisticated automated manufacturing environment, including our Fastems Flexible Manufacturing Systems and fleet of 5-axis machining centres.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead production scheduling and coordinate teams to deliver projects safely, on time, and to specification
- Manage daily operations and drive results across the manufacturing floor
- Oversee capacity planning and resource allocation to maximise efficiency
- Ensure compliance with quality standards (AS9100) and health & safety regulations
- Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) including OTD, quality, and productivity
- Lead, motivate, and develop production teams
- Collaborate with engineering, quality, and planning teams to resolve issues
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices
- Manage relationships with internal stakeholders and support customer requirements
- Report on production performance to senior management
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience as a Production Manager or similar leadership role in manufacturing
- Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, and capacity management
- Experience managing teams in a precision engineering or aerospace environment
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet demanding deadlines
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
- Proficient with ERP systems and Microsoft Office
Desirable Requirements
- Experience with automated manufacturing systems (FMS, pallet systems)
- Knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace industry requirements
- IOSH or NEBOSH qualification
- Lean Six Sigma certification
- Experience with Epicor or similar ERP systems
About Us
R E Thompson is a leading precision aerospace engineering company with over 75 years of experience providing complete manufacturing solutions. Operating from our advanced facilities in Hampshire, we are home to the UK's most sophisticated automated 5-axis machine shop. Our state-of-the-art Flexible Manufacturing System enables 24/7 lights-out production, and we hold AS9100, ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001 certifications. We work with prestigious clients including GE Aviation, BAE Systems, and Ontic, delivering complex precision components for the aerospace, defence, automotive, and electronics industries.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary as advertised
- 25 days holiday plus public holidays
- Pension scheme with employer contributions
- Life Assurance
- Bike2Work Scheme
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- Business mileage allowance
- Company laptop and mobile phone provided
- On-site parking at our modern facility
- Team building events
How to Apply
Click 'Apply Now' to submit your application. Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK to be considered. We will not be sponsoring visas for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Recruitment Team, R E Thompson
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £45,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Benefits: Company events, Company pension, Cycle to work scheme, On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Production Manager in Andover employer: R E Thompson & Co (Vacuum) Ltd
R E Thompson is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Andover where innovation meets precision engineering. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits including a generous holiday allowance and pension scheme, and a culture that prioritises teamwork and continuous improvement, we empower our Production Managers to lead impactful projects in the aerospace and defence sectors. Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing solutions.
Contact Details:
R E Thompson & Co (Vacuum) Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager in Andover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join relevant groups. 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 the company and its culture. Understand their products and values, especially in aerospace and defence. This will help you tailor your answers and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions. Focus on your leadership experience and how you've driven results in previous roles. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Production Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager in Andover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Production Manager role. Highlight your experience in production planning, team management, and any relevant certifications like AS9100 or Lean Six Sigma. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our advanced manufacturing environment. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in previous roles. Let us know why you want to join our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics to demonstrate how you’ve improved KPIs like OTD and productivity. We love numbers that tell a story about your impact!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply 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 you’re keen on joining our team at R E Thompson!
How to prepare for a job interview at R E Thompson & Co (Vacuum) Ltd
✨Know Your Production Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand production scheduling and capacity management. Brush up on your knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and how they apply to aerospace and defence. This will show that you're not just familiar with the role but are genuinely passionate about optimising production processes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams, especially in a precision engineering environment. Think of specific examples where you've motivated your team or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to manage and develop production teams effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Key Performance Indicators
Understand the key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to the role, such as on-time delivery (OTD), quality, and productivity. Be ready to talk about how you've monitored and improved these metrics in your previous roles, as this will highlight your results-driven approach.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to automated manufacturing systems and ERP software. If you have experience with Fastems or Epicor, be sure to mention it. Even if you haven't used these specific systems, discussing your adaptability and willingness to learn can leave a positive impression.
