At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations and ensure high-quality, efficient delivery of products.
- Company: Join SMC Corporation, a global leader in automation and fluid control solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, pension scheme, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive team committed to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a pivotal leadership role within a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in production management and strong engineering knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 41000 - 50000 £ per year.
Full time hours: Monday to Friday 08:00-16:00, 37.5 hours
Location: Milton Keynes
The Company
SMC Corporation is the UK and global market leader in its field. With its headquarters in Japan and a strong presence in over 80 countries worldwide, SMC operates an extensive network of subsidiaries, production sites, and distribution centres. This global reach enables SMC to provide consistent, high-quality automation and fluid control solutions to a diverse range of industries, ensuring customers benefit from local support backed by international expertise. The company's commitment to innovation and customer service has established it as a trusted partner for businesses across the globe. SMC Corporation UK Ltd is the wholly owned subsidiary of SMC Corporation in Japan. The UK operation is located at a substantial 14-acre site in Milton Keynes, which houses our UK offices, design, factory, and warehousing. We provide automation and fluid control solutions for factory and laboratory applications. Our target sectors are automotive, food, beverage & packaging, and the life science sectors.
The Person
We are seeking a Production Manager with proven team management experience to lead our Production Team and oversee the full end-to-end manufacturing process. This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for ensuring products are delivered safely, efficiently, on time, and to the highest quality standards.
The Role
The successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational excellence, embedding continuous improvement practices, and developing team capability, ensuring alignment with wider business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end production operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and on-time delivery of manufactured products
- Manage daily production performance, driving output, quality, and cost control
- Lead, coach, and develop production teams to improve capability, engagement, and performance
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and safety
- Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve efficiency
- Work closely with engineering teams to support product development, process improvements, and production readiness
- Contribute to IoT and machine connectivity initiatives to improve real-time data visibility and operational decision-making
- Ensure compliance with evolving UK and European regulatory requirements
- Ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements where applicable
- Drive quality improvements and root cause analysis
Skills and Experience
- Production, Manufacturing or Engineering Management experience
- Strong mechanical and/or electrical engineering knowledge
- Understanding of IoT, connectivity or smart systems
- Knowledge of CE and UKCA compliance processes
- Continuous improvement and quality management experience
- Strong organisational and leadership skills
What We Offer
We are continuously working to make our team even more diverse and inclusive. We welcome applications from all and are committed to attracting, recruiting and retaining the most talented individuals. SMC has sustainable development goals as we believe in caring for our futures as well as the future of the planet.
Benefits and package
- Competitive annual salary dependent on skills, qualifications, and experience
- Private medical insurance
- Pension scheme
- SMC rewards and benefits portal including retail discounts
- Ongoing training and development
The Selection Process
Upon application, candidates will be asked to undertake some online testing, followed by a first interview and second working interview in which you would spend time with the team and the systems, both take place on site at our head office in Milton Keynes.
Production Manager in Milton Keynes employer: SMC Corporation (UK) Limited
SMC Corporation is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Milton Keynes where innovation and teamwork thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits including private medical insurance and a pension scheme, and a focus on sustainability, SMC fosters a culture of inclusivity and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful careers in production management.
Contact Details:
SMC Corporation (UK) Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager in Milton Keynes
✨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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited, 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 Production Manager in Milton Keynes
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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited 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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with SMC Corporation (UK) Limited, 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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited 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.
