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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Thermoteknix and understanding their products and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in production leadership and operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background in manufacturing and continuous improvement can drive success at Thermoteknix. Confidence is key, so rehearse your answers to common interview questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the team at Thermoteknix.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Production in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Production role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant manufacturing expertise. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that relate to our production goals.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you've improved efficiency or quality in previous roles. We love numbers that tell a story!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thermoteknix Systems Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the ins and outs of production management, especially in a high-tech environment. Brush up on your knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and lean manufacturing principles, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to achieve operational excellence. This role is all about people management, so be ready to discuss your approach.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific production challenges or improve processes. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, especially in relation to quality compliance and continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Align with Their Values
Research Thermoteknix's company culture and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around quality, safety, and innovation. Showing that you fit into their culture can set you apart from other candidates.
