Production Manager

Production Manager Kettering, Northamptonshire Up to £50,000 per annum (DOE) 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 escalate 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 2530 days annual leave (service-based) Company pension scheme Life assurance Income protection Flexible working hours Free on-site parking Potential for international travel

Recruitment Process Closing date: 6 June 2026 First stage interviews (Teams): 16 June 2026 Final stage interviews (on-site): 24 June 2026

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