At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations for bespoke exhibition stands, ensuring high-quality project delivery.
- Company: Established business in the exhibition industry with a strong project pipeline.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 20 days leave, pension contributions, and life insurance.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a respected company.
- Why this job: Shape strategy and lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in production, ideally within exhibitions or manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
About the opportunity:
We are the internal recruitment partner for a well-established business creating bespoke exhibition stands for events across the UK and internationally. With a strong and growing pipeline of projects, they are now seeking an experienced Head of Production to lead their production function at their site near Peterborough.
This is a senior leadership position within the business, responsible for overseeing end-to-end production operations, driving operational excellence, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality projects in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. The role offers the opportunity to shape strategy, develop teams, and implement continuous improvements across the production lifecycle.
Responsibilities:
- Leading and overseeing all production operations, including workshop, build, and logistical planning functions.
- Developing and implementing production strategies to improve efficiency, scalability, and output quality.
- Managing the day-to-day running of the production department, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
- Leading, mentoring, and developing a multi-disciplinary team, including line management responsibilities and performance development.
- Planning, scheduling, and coordinating multiple concurrent projects across the UK and abroad.
- Allocating labour and resources effectively to maximise productivity and ensure delivery deadlines are met.
- Driving high standards of quality, organisation, health & safety, and operational excellence across all production activities.
- Collaborating closely with Sales, Design, Print, and Operations teams to ensure seamless project execution.
- Overseeing logistics planning, including transport, fleet management, and the coordination of specialist equipment for installations.
- Supporting and overseeing site installations, breakdowns, and client handovers when required.
- Monitoring production performance, reporting on KPIs, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Implementing best practices, new processes, and innovative build methods to enhance efficiency and output.
Requirements:
- Proven experience in a senior production leadership role within a workshop, manufacturing, or production environment.
- Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience building and developing high-performing teams.
- Background in carpentry, joinery, fabrication, or a similar hands-on trade is highly advantageous.
- Experience within the exhibition, events, shopfitting, or display build industry is highly desirable.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex, multi-project production environments under tight deadlines.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, cost, and timelines.
- Excellent organisational and planning skills, with a strategic approach to production management.
- Experience coordinating logistics, transport, and operational resources.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across all business levels.
- Flexible approach to working hours and travel, in line with project requirements.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary of £55,000 – £65,000 per annum, dependent on experience.
- 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Pension contributions.
- Life insurance.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Opportunity to play a key role in a growing, well-respected exhibition build business.
Head of Production employer: Vero HR
Join a dynamic and innovative company that values leadership and creativity in the exhibition stand industry. Located near Peterborough, this role offers a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and operational excellence. As the Head of Production, you will have the unique opportunity to shape strategies and lead a talented team, all while contributing to exciting projects both locally and internationally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Production
✨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 Vero HR, 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
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 Vero HR 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 Vero HR
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Vero HR, 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 Vero HR 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.
