Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing

Location:

Barnoldswick, England, United Kingdom
Work Mode:
On-site
Industry: Defense and Space Manufacturing

• Site ownership – lead leadership and execution across engineering, planning, manufacturing, and liaise with quality & compliance; ensure safe, efficient delivery and OTIF performance.
• Delivery control & schedule execution – implement production schedules, resolve constraints, monitor performance, apply recovery actions.
• Leadership, organisation & performance – coach supervisors and staff, enforce KPIs, build talent pipeline, manage attendance, safety standards and succession planning.
• Operational control, governance & compliance – maintain shop‑floor controls, shift handovers, reporting, adherence to SOPs, regulatory requirements and audit readiness.
• Operational excellence & strategic interface – drive improvements in productivity, throughput, lean principles, data‑driven strategy, support new processes & system deployments.

• 10+ years manufacturing leadership in aerospace & defence with multi‑disciplinary operations.
• Proven delivery of 100% OTIF and management of large diverse teams across machining, treatments, logistics and assembly.
• Experience in supervising, coaching and developing operational staff.
• Strong production control, scheduling, escalation and performance management capability.
• In‑depth knowledge of metallic manufacturing and surface treatments in aerospace.
• Familiarity with AS9100, NADCAP, ITAR, NIST and related regulatory standards.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience with proven results.
• Knowledge of ERP/MRP‑based production control systems, data analysis and operational reporting.
• Background in CAPEX investment planning and execution.
• Full‑time on‑site availability in Barnoldswick.

• Managing subcontractors and extended workbench manufacturing.
• Experience with ITAR, NIST and defence sector compliance requirements.

• Strategic impact – shape core operational processes in a scaling organisation.
• Prestige and innovation – contribute to high‑stakes aerospace, space and defence projects.
• Meritocratic culture – performance, talent and integrity at core.

We do not hire based on race, skin colour, gender, religion, or any other personal characteristic protected by the law; we believe in rewarding talent, dedication, integrity, and results.