At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop manufacturing operations for advanced thermal imaging systems.
- Company: Join a world leader in thermal imaging and augmented reality based in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Significant scope for career growth in a globally respected company.
- Why this job: Shape the future of manufacturing in a cutting-edge technology environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in manufacturing with strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Company Profile
Location: Waterbeach, UK
Department: Production
Reports to: Operations Director
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award‑winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in‑house R&D, cutting‑edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.
About You
Thermoteknix is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Production to lead and develop all manufacturing and production operations across the business. The role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, high‑quality and scalable production of advanced thermal imaging and sensing systems, supporting both current programmes and future growth.
The successful candidate will oversee production planning, manufacturing, assembly, test operations, supply chain coordination, quality performance and continuous improvement initiatives. They will play a key leadership role in delivering operational excellence within a high‑technology, regulated manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Production Leadership
- Lead daily production activities to achieve delivery, quality and efficiency targets.
- Ensure manufacturing schedules are executed effectively to meet customer demand.
- Coordinate cross‑functional teams to support smooth production operations.
- Drive accountability and performance across all production areas.
- Support new product introduction and transition into manufacturing.
- Manufacturing & Operations
- Oversee manufacturing operations to ensure safe, efficient and cost‑effective production.
- Oversee purchasing and supplier coordination to maintain continuity of supply.
- Ensure ERP/MRP systems are effectively utilised to support operations.
- Identify and mitigate operational risks affecting delivery or product quality.
- Monitor operational KPI’s and implement corrective action where required.
- Quality & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with quality, regulatory, and health and safety standards.
- Ensure manufacturing processes meet ISO and customer quality requirements.
- Support audit readiness and continuous compliance across operations.
- Promote a culture of quality and process discipline throughout manufacturing.
- Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
- Drive lean manufacturing and operational excellence initiatives.
- Improve production flow, capacity utilisation, and on‑time delivery performance.
- Analyse operational data to support informed decision‑making and improvement actions.
- Lead change initiatives that support business growth and scalability.
- Support automation and digital manufacturing initiatives where appropriate.
- People Management
- Lead, mentor, and develop manufacturing and operational teams.
- Foster a positive, accountable, and high‑performance working environment.
- Support employee development through coaching and performance management.
- Ensure effective communication across departments and operational teams.
- Promote employee engagement and adherence to company values.
- Commercial & Strategic Contribution
- Contribute to operational strategy and long‑term business objectives.
- Support cost control and margin improvement initiatives across manufacturing.
- Collaborate with the leadership team to support growth and investment planning.
- Align manufacturing capability with customer and commercial requirements.
- Provide operational insight and reporting to support strategic decision‑making.
- Liaise with commercial teams to align manufacturing capacity with customer demand forecasts.
Required Experience
- Proven leadership experience running a manufacturing environment with highly configurable products.
- Strong understanding of production planning, purchasing, and supply chain operations.
- Experience managing operational performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Knowledge of quality systems, compliance, and manufacturing best practices.
- Extensive experience working with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing KPIs.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary production teams.
- Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making capability.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience working within ISO‑regulated environments.
- Engineering or technical degree qualification.
Desirable Experience
- Experience within defence, aerospace, electronics, or high‑technology manufacturing.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience managing low‑volume, high‑complexity production environments.
- Experience in evaluating, selection and implementation of a new ERP/MPR system.
- Experience supporting NPI (New Product Introduction).
- Familiarity with regulated or export‑controlled manufacturing operations.
- Engineering or technical manufacturing background preferred.
Why us?
- Opportunity to lead manufacturing operations within an innovative and globally respected advanced technology business.
- Significant scope to shape manufacturing capability, manufacturing systems, and future production strategy.
- Exposure to cutting‑edge thermal imaging, sensing, and defence technologies.
- Competitive senior‑level salary, performance‑related bonus, pension contribution, and benefits package.
- Professional development and long‑term career growth opportunities within a rapidly evolving technology environment.
Head of Production in Cambridge employer: Thermoteknix Systems Ltd
Thermoteknix Systems Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering the chance to lead manufacturing operations in a pioneering technology firm renowned for its innovative thermal imaging and sensing solutions. Located in Waterbeach, UK, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development, operational excellence, and employee engagement, alongside a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. With significant opportunities for career growth and exposure to cutting-edge technologies, Thermoteknix is committed to fostering a high-performance environment where every team member can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Production in Cambridge
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Leverage the Power of Internships
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, 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 Head of Production in Cambridge
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 Thermoteknix Systems Ltd 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 Thermoteknix Systems Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, 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 Thermoteknix Systems Ltd 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.
