At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead machining functions and drive high-performance manufacturing for cutting-edge components.
- Company: Join SailGP Technologies, a leader in high-performance design and engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of manufacturing in an exciting, fast-paced sports technology environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in machining and leadership within high-tech sectors.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
SailGP Technologies is the high performance design, engineering and manufacturing arm of SailGP, the global purpose-led sail grand prix championship. The Rolex SailGP Championship is the most exciting racing on water, where anything can happen in short, adrenaline-fueled battles between national teams at iconic stadium destinations worldwide. Top athletes fly in identical high-tech F50 catamarans faster than the wind, at speeds in excess of 100km/h (60mph). Founded in 2018, SailGP is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and entertainment properties, now in its sixth season. SailGP’s constantly evolving design, composites engineering, software and data expertise is rooted in decades of experience at the forefront of cutting-edge sail racing. Previously established and located in New Zealand since 2001, SailGP Technologies has relocated to Southampton, UK, with the new state of the art facility which opened in Spring 2024.
Job Summary: This leadership role is responsible for overseeing an integrated engineering and manufacturing function, with a focus on delivering high-performance, high-quality components through both metallic and composite processes. The successful candidate will bring proven experience across production and advanced manufacturing, ideally from a high-tech, precision-driven environment such as motorsport, aerospace, or marine innovation. This position requires strong technical leadership, hands-on experience managing multidisciplinary teams, and a clear understanding of how to scale production systems and processes to meet evolving operational demands. It is ideally suited to someone currently in a lead engineering or production management role who is ready to take ownership of a full department and play a central role in shaping future manufacturing strategy. Reporting into the Director of SailGP Technologies, the Machine Shop Manager will be responsible for all machining functions, including CNC 3-axis, 5-axis and manual machines ensuring end to end delivery, from procurement, quality inspection and stock control.
Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership for all machining functions, including manufacturing, testing, and product development, ensuring alignment with business and performance objectives.
- Define and execute a forward-looking manufacturing and production strategy that supports growth, product innovation, and scalability - balancing in-house capability with outsourced supply chain solutions.
- Oversee the delivery of high-precision metallic and composite components, driving quality, repeatability, and production efficiency across all manufacturing processes.
- Ensure tight integration between engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and operations to support seamless product development and industrialisation.
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement, leading initiatives to reduce lead times, optimise tooling and resource allocation, and improve yield and material efficiency.
- Lead investment planning and capability development within manufacturing and production functions - including CNC machining, composites machining, fixturing, and quality systems.
- Manage daily operations of internal machining and fabrication teams, ensuring delivery of components to specification, budget, and schedule, while meeting the highest performance and safety standards.
- Act as a key technical authority and thought leader within the organisation - supporting decision-making at the senior level and driving a culture of excellence.
- Oversight and required resilience support with all programming, setting and running of Mazak and ARES CNC machines.
- Manage the procurement and stock control of departmental resources, including raw materials, while maintaining adherence to budget.
- Direct the quality assurance and inspection function, guaranteeing total precision and technical compliance for every manufactured component.
- Manage low-volume component machining operations, applying advanced problem-solving skills to resolve complex technical challenges.
About you:
- Demonstrable and relevant experience with machining in a modern manufacturing environment.
- Additional experience with CAD, manual machine tools and welding is preferred but not essential.
- Previous experience of machining titanium and other exotic metals.
- Proven leadership experience in manufacturing and production within a high-tech, precision-driven sector such as motorsport, aerospace, or marine technology.
- Strong technical grounding of metallic manufacturing processes, with the ability to guide teams in the workshop, as well as at the strategic level, including a strong knowledge and experience in CNC programming and operation.
- Hands-on leadership style – equally comfortable directing teams and personally engaging in problem-solving to meet performance, quality, and delivery targets.
- Track record of successfully managing machine shop teams and fostering collaboration across manufacturing, procurement, and operations.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute manufacturing strategies that balance in-house capabilities with external supply chain partners.
- Experience scaling production processes and systems to meet evolving operational demands while maintaining quality and repeatability.
- Skilled in implementing continuous improvement initiatives that reduce lead times, optimise tooling and resources, and improve material efficiency.
- Confident communicator and influencer, able to operate effectively at all levels of the organisation and with senior stakeholders.
- Commercially aware, with an understanding of the financial and operational drivers behind engineering and manufacturing decisions.
- Passionate about building high-performance teams and embedding a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and innovation.
SailGP Technologies is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
Machine Shop Manager in Southampton employer: SailGP
SailGP Technologies is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Southampton where innovation meets high-performance engineering. With a commitment to employee growth and a culture that champions diversity and inclusion, team members are encouraged to develop their skills while contributing to cutting-edge projects in the thrilling world of competitive sailing. The state-of-the-art facility, combined with opportunities for hands-on leadership and strategic influence, makes this an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Shop Manager in Southampton
✨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!
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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 SailGP, 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 Machine Shop Manager in Southampton
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 SailGP 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 SailGP
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with SailGP, 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 SailGP 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.
