Production Manager

Production Manager

Southampton. Permanent. £55,000 - £60,000 + Benefits.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Production Manager to join a leading high‑technology manufacturing business operating within advanced engineering and industrial laser solutions.

This is a key leadership role within the operations team, responsible for driving performance across production, safety, quality, continuous improvement, and delivery. The successful candidate will lead a production unit within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment, ensuring operational excellence while supporting business growth and customer satisfaction on a global scale.

As Production Manager, you will take overall responsibility for the performance and day‑to‑day management of your production area. You will lead and develop teams, drive Lean manufacturing initiatives, and work cross‑functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics, HR, and Operations to achieve strategic business objectives. You will play a critical role in improving efficiency, reducing costs, supporting new product introduction activities, and ensuring production capability aligns with customer demand.

• Lead and promote a strong health, safety, and environmental culture across the production area
• Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives within a Lean manufacturing environment
• Monitor and manage production KPIs, implementing corrective actions where required
• Deliver productivity and cost reduction projects, including scrap reduction and manufacturing efficiency improvements
• Communicate production targets and business objectives clearly across teams
• Support strategic operational planning and production development activities
• Collaborate closely with Engineering teams on new product introduction and manufacturing readiness activities
• Build strong working relationships across Operations, Supply Chain, Logistics, HR, and Engineering functions
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels, capability planning, and skills development within the production team
• Maintain inventory accuracy and effective stock management within the production area
• Lead, coach, and develop team members to achieve high performance and engagement

We are looking for a proactive and driven manufacturing leader with strong people management skills and experience operating within a modern Lean manufacturing environment. You will be analytical, organized, and capable of balancing strategic planning with hands‑on operational leadership in a fast‑moving production setting.

• Previous experience in a Production Manager or similar leadership role within manufacturing
• Strong Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience
• Experience working collaboratively with cross‑functional business teams including Engineering, Procurement, HR, and Finance
• Experience using ERP systems within a manufacturing environment
• Strong planning and production capacity management experience
• Good IT skills including spreadsheets, reporting, and communication tools
• Experience with in high‑precision, electronics, optical, or advanced manufacturing environments would be advantageous

• Ideally degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or a related discipline
• Lean Manufacturing qualification or equivalent practical experience would be beneficial

• Strong leadership and coaching capability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Data‑driven and solution‑focused approach to problem solving
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Self‑motivated and adaptable within a dynamic environment
• Strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach to operational delivery
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to continuous improvement