This is a rare opportunity to join a new manufacturing business at the very start of its journey and play a key role in building the operation from the ground up
SwiftLine Laser Limited is an ambitious new laser cutting business based in Washington, Tyne & Wear. We are currently establishing our new manufacturing facility, with three high-capacity Bystronic fibre laser machines forming the backbone of an operation designed for significant growth.
We have ambitious plans for SwiftLine and are building the business around Lean manufacturing, modern technology, short lead times and exceptional customer service. We now need an experienced Production Manager who shares that ambition and wants the opportunity to help shape how the factory operates from day one.
This isn't a position where you'll walk into an established production department and simply manage what's already there. You'll work directly with the Group Production Director and senior management team during the initial factory and machine set-up, helping establish the production systems, processes, standards and team that will take the business forward.
For the right person, this is an opportunity to put their own stamp on a new manufacturing operation and develop their career as SwiftLine grows.
Th Role
The Production Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day running of production and for delivering the agreed production plan. Initially, the role will also involve supporting the installation and commissioning of the factory and helping to put the correct processes and standards in place.
This will be a practical, hands-on management role. We are looking for someone who is comfortable working on the shop floor, developing people and solving production problems, while also maintaining control of output, quality, cost and delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the installation and commissioning of the three Bystronic laser cutting machines and associated production equipment.
- Work with the Group Production Director to establish the factory layout, material flow and production processes.
- Plan and manage day-to-day production to achieve agreed output and delivery targets.
- Manage, train and develop laser operators and production staff.
- Provide hands‑on support with machinery and production hen required.
- Drive machine utilisation, productivity and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
- Apply Lean manufacturing principles to improve flow, reduce waste and remove bottlenecks.
- Develop and maintain 5S and good housekeeping standards across the production area.
- Use production KPIs to identify issues and drive contiguous improvement.
- Lead practical problem solving and root‑cause activity when production, quality or delivery issues arise.
- Control raw material, work-in-progress and finished goods through the production process.
- Minimise scrap and improve material utilisation.
- Maintain high standards of health & safety, quality and operational discipline.
- Work closely with engineering, quality, purchasing, commercial an administration teams.
- Support the implementation and development of ERP/MRP and production planning systems.
- Support ISO 9001 implementation and ensure production works to the agreed Quality Management System.
- Assist with recruitment and training as the production team expands.
Experience and Skills
We are looking for someone with a strong manufacturing background who wants to be involved in building a new operation rather than simply taking over an established production department.
- Previous experience in production or manufacturing management within an engineering environment.
- Experience in laser cutting, sheet metal or fabrication would be highly desirable.
- Experience with Bystronic equipment would be a major advantage, although experience with other modern laser cutting systems will be considered.
- Practical experience of Lean manufacturing, 5S and continuous improvement is advantageous.
- Good understanding of production planning, KPIs, OEE, waste reductio and root‑cause problem solving.
- Strong people-management skills with the ability to train, develop and motivate a production team.
- A practical and organised approach, with the ability to prioritise in a fast-moving manufacturing environment.
- Commercial awareness and a strong focus on safety, quality, cost and delivery.
- Experience of ERP/MRP systems is advantageous.
- Knowledge of SigmaNest nd/or SolidWoks would be beneficial.
What We Offer
- Salary £50,000–£55000 per annum, dependent on experience.
- Potential to participate in a profit share scheme in the future, subject to company performance and the introduction of an agreed scheme.
- A key role in the set‑up and development of a new manufacturing operation.
- The opportunity to influence production systems, processes and standards from day one.
- Direct involvement with the Group Production Director and senior management team.
- Modern Bystronic fibre laser technology in a new Washington manufacturing facility.
- Long-term career development within an ambitious North East engineering business.
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