Head of Manufacturing Operations
We are seeking a Head of Manufacturing Operations to lead the establishment and scaling of our UK manufacturing capability. This role blends technical depth with entrepreneurial drive, building a lean, adaptive, and quality‑obsessed production organisation.
Responsibilities
- Build and lead the operational UK production and manufacturing function, including team formation, process design, and facility set‑up
- Develop and implement scalable, flexible manufacturing systems capable of supporting rapid iteration, prototyping, and small‑to‑medium batch production
- Foster a culture of innovation and empowerment, enabling engineering and production teams to experiment, learn, and continuously improve
- Collaborate cross‑functionally to shorten development cycles and maintain exceptional quality
- Implement modern digital manufacturing tools and methods, such as additive manufacturing, digital twins, and data‑driven production control and quality
- Ensure regulatory and quality compliance while maintaining agility and innovation
- Oversee supplier relationships and develop a responsive, resilient supply chain with an emphasis on UK content and rapid turnaround
- Champion continuous improvement through lean manufacturing, Kaizen, and data‑led decision‑making
- Drive sustainability and efficiency in materials, energy, and process management
Profile & Requirements
- Proven leadership experience in Aerospace, Defence or advanced‑technology manufacturing
- Deep understanding of modern production techniques, lean principles and digital manufacturing
- Experience building and scaling teams and facilities from early stage to operational maturity
- Track record of delivering complex, high‑quality engineered products to demanding standards
- Strong understanding of quality systems (AS9100 / ISO9001) and regulatory environments
- Strategic thinker with a hands‑on, collaborative approach
- Excellent communication, team‑building and coaching skills
Benefits
- An excellent work environment and an opportunity to make a difference
- Salary commensurate with level of experience
- Company pension contribution matched up to 10%
- 25 days annual holiday plus 8 bank holidays
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Salary sacrifice initiatives (EV Scheme, Cycle 2 Work, Tech Scheme)
- Discretionary annual company bonus
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