At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing team in delivering critical naval products.
- Company: Thales, a global tech leader in defence and security.
- Benefits: Private medical insurance, annual bonus, employee discounts, and more.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to continuous improvement and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defence and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing leadership and operations management.
The predicted salary is between 54450 - 66550 £ per year.
Location: Templecombe, United Kingdom
Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.
Lead a mission‐critical manufacturing team delivering products that protect and empower global naval capability. Thales Templecombe is home to world‐class Under Water Systems manufacturing, and we're looking for an APRU Manager (FMC) to lead one of our most critical operational units. This role is central to delivering high‐integrity naval products on time, on cost and to the highest levels of quality and safety.
If you're passionate about operational excellence, people leadership and making an impact that truly matters — this is your opportunity.
What You'll Do
As APRU Manager, you'll take full accountability for the end‐to‐end industrial delivery of key naval products. You will:
- Lead, develop and inspire a high‐performing team
- Drive daily production performance and achieve the Master Production Schedule
- Champion quality, lean methodology and continuous improvement
- Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement and wider site leadership
- Ensure a safe, compliant and high‐standards operating environment
- Shape the long‐term industrial vision for our Glasgow site
This is a role with real influence — where your leadership strengthens delivery to the Royal Navy and international partners.
What You'll Bring
We're looking for someone with:
- Proven experience leading in an industrial or manufacturing environment
- Strong operations management capability
- A track record of driving continuous improvement and change
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- The ability to coach, motivate and develop teams
- Knowledge of lean, quality, and industrial processes
- Preferred experience in MRP2, supply chain disciplines or operational financials is beneficial but not essential.
Why Thales?
At Thales, your work contributes directly to safeguarding lives and strengthening national defence capability. You'll join a collaborative, ambitious team committed to innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Lead a revenue‐critical operation
- Shape industrial strategy for the site
- Deliver meaningful impact that extends beyond the factory floor
- Develop your leadership capability in a globally respected organisation
Ready to Lead With Purpose? If you want to deliver real impact, drive operational excellence and lead a team whose work truly matters, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of naval manufacturing.
At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role.
We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring.
If this role isn't quite right for you, we encourage you to join our talent community where your details will be shared with our recruitment teams for other potential opportunities.
Join Thales in the UK – Innovate with us and shape the future!
Summary Location: Templecombe Type: Full time
Locations
APRU/Production Manager in Somerset, Templecombe employer: Thales Group
Thales is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Crawley. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training opportunities, competitive benefits including private medical insurance and annual bonuses, and a supportive environment where your contributions directly impact the future of technology. Join us to be part of a team that values diversity, encourages creativity, and prioritises ethical AI solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land APRU/Production Manager in Somerset, Templecombe
✨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 Thales Group, 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 APRU/Production Manager in Somerset, Templecombe
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 Thales Group 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 Thales Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Thales Group, 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 Thales Group 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.
