At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations and ensure timely delivery of high-quality precision machinery.
- Company: Respected UK engineering firm known for innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Up to £50,000 salary, flexible hours, generous leave, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for international travel and career progression.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in cutting-edge manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 5+ years in production leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum (DOE)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
About the Company
A long‑established and highly respected UK‑based engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking a Production Manager to join its specialist equipment division. The business designs and manufactures precision testing machinery used internationally across a range of industries. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, the company supplies equipment to global customers and supply chains.
Role Overview
The Production Manager will take responsibility for end‑to‑end production operations, ensuring products are delivered on time, to quality standards, and in line with commercial objectives. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring a strong engineering background, proven production management experience, and the ability to balance operational delivery with commercial awareness.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Planning & Delivery
- Oversee full delivery lifecycle from order intake through to installation, commissioning, and service
- Drive improvements in delivery performance and operational efficiency
- Lead cross‑functional planning across engineering, production, procurement, and service teams
- Ensure visibility of capacity, priorities, and risks
- Production & Service Management
- Manage team leads across: Design (mechanical, electrical, software/firmware), Production and assembly, Electrical build, calibration, and commissioning, Service and technical support, Warehousing and fulfilment
- Ensure adherence to quality standards and operational processes
- Monitor and escalation of issues relating to design, suppliers, production, or components
- Commercial & Financial Awareness
- Support achievement of financial targets through operational decision‑making
- Identify and reduce inefficiencies and cost leakage
- Collaborate with sales and logistics teams to optimise margin and delivery
- Contribute to operational input for wider business strategy
- Customer & Market Support
- Support development of service offerings, upgrades, and aftermarket services
- Provide technical input into marketing materials and product positioning
- Work closely with customer‑facing teams to resolve issues efficiently
- Leadership & Development
- Lead, coach, and develop team leaders and operational staff
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer focus
- Support training, skills development, and succession planning
- Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
- Continuous Improvement & Compliance
- Drive process improvements while maintaining operational efficiency
- Ensure strong communication between departments (engineering, production, sales, quality, procurement)
- Support compliance with relevant machinery regulations and certification standards (e.g. CE/UKCA)
- Maintain audit readiness for quality and calibration processes
Candidate Requirements
Essential:
- Degree or equivalent qualification in mechanical and/or electrical engineering
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior production or engineering leadership role
- Experience managing both design and manufacturing teams
- Strong planning, coordination, and problem‑solving capabilities
- Commercial awareness (cost control, margins, customer impact)
- Experience with ERP systems
- Background in low‑volume, high‑value manufacturing environments
- Knowledge of machinery regulations (UK/EU/international)
- Right to work in the UK
Desirable:
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics / Business Central ERP
- Exposure to P&L accountability
- Knowledge of IoT or emerging technologies
- Experience in precision capital equipment manufacturing
- Involvement in business development or product marketing
Personal Attributes
- Practical and delivery‑focused approach
- Able to balance technical, commercial, and people priorities
- Calm under pressure with strong prioritisation skills
- Proactive mindset with a continuous improvement approach
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Interest in technology and innovation
- Ambition to progress into broader operational leadership
Benefits
- 25‑30 days annual leave (service‑based)
- Company pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Income protection
- Flexible working hours
- Free on‑site parking
- Potential for international travel
Production Manager. Job in Kettering LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Join a long-established and highly respected engineering and manufacturing organisation in Kettering, where you will play a pivotal role as a Production Manager in a dynamic and innovative environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, the company offers extensive growth opportunities, flexible working hours, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and a pension scheme. Experience a collaborative work culture that values quality, accountability, and continuous improvement while contributing to the success of precision testing machinery supplied to global markets.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager. Job in Kettering LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local engineering events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Production Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company and its products. Understand their market position and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to show them you’re the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in previous roles. We want to hear about your hands-on approach and how you’ve driven operational efficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager. Job in Kettering LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Production Manager role. Highlight your engineering background and any relevant production management experience. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvements in delivery performance or operational efficiency in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Production Manager, leadership is key. In your application, emphasise your experience in leading teams and fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and develop their teams!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially around precision testing machinery. Be ready to discuss your experience in production management and how it relates to the role. This will show that you’re not just a fit for the job, but that you’re genuinely interested in the company’s products.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and accountability among team members. This is crucial since the role requires strong leadership to manage cross-functional teams effectively.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with the company's market position and their approach to operational efficiency. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to financial targets and reduce inefficiencies. This shows that you have a commercial mindset and are ready to make an impact from day one.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the company’s future projects, challenges they face in production, or their approach to continuous improvement. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals.
