Head of Manufacturing Operations

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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