Production Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead manufacturing operations within a fast-paced production environment. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven leader with a strong background in driving operational excellence, managing large teams, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have experience within furniture manufacturing, woodworking, interiors, joinery, kitchens, shopfitting, or a similar high-volume manufacturing environment. Formal qualifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies are highly desirable. As Manufacturing Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day management of manufacturing operations, ensuring products are produced safely, efficiently, on time, and to the highest quality standards. You will lead and develop large production teams while driving productivity, performance, and continuous improvement across the facility. Key Responsibilities • Lead, motivate, and develop large multi-disciplinary manufacturing and production teams. • Manage manufacturing schedules to ensure customer orders are delivered on time and in full. • Drive operational performance through effective planning, resource allocation, and workflow optimisation. • Monitor and improve KPIs including productivity, quality, waste, efficiency, OEE, labour utilisation, and delivery performance. • Champion a culture of continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles. • Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. • Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and quality standards. • Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching, and succession planning activities. • Work collaboratively with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve manufacturing challenges. • Manage departmental budgets and control operational costs. • Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities to address production and quality issues. • Support business growth through effective capacity planning and operational strategy. • Drive best practice across manufacturing processes, ensuring consistent standards and continuous improvement throughout the operation. The Ideal Candidate • Proven experience in a Manufacturing Manager, Production Manager, Operations Manager, or similar senior leadership role. • Experience leading large teams within a manufacturing environment. • Background within furniture manufacturing, woodworking, joinery, interiors, kitchens, shopfitting, or a comparable industry would be highly advantageous. • Demonstrable success in driving operational improvements and delivering measurable business results. • Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and operational excellence methodologies. • Formal qualifications such as Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, Lean Practitioner, or equivalent are highly desirable.