The Company
Our client is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of printed materials supplying to independent and national retailers in Britain. The business is regularly winning industry design awards across multiple categories, while also providing exceptional levels of service and support to their retailer clients.
The business is targeting further growth and as part of their plans to enhance operations, they are bringing their production and distribution operations under one roof, while also investing millions of pounds in new equipment. As part of these changes, the company is now looking to recruit a new Head of Production to help drive efficiencies, cost reduction and quality across their production function.
The Role - Head of Production
Based in their new facility in Buckinghamshire, the Head of Production is a vital position within the team and will report directly into the Operations Director. They will be responsible for a team of production operatives, as well as a team of production planners and coordinators.
The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and experienced Production leader who has experience of working within the print industry. They will oversee all aspects of the production process, from purchasing raw materials and planning print jobs, through to manufacture, finishing and delivery to stock. They will be responsible for ensuring that products are manufactured efficiently, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role requires strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a hands-on approach to manage and optimise production operations, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive production strategy aligned with the company's goals and objectives
- Identify opportunities for process optimisation, automation, cost reduction, and efficiency improvements across the manufacturing function to enhance efficiency, quality, sustainability and profitability
- Lead, mentor, and develop the production team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, setting clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback and evaluations
- Develop product launch strategies with the design studio, devise stock build programs for retail launches and product distribution, and reduce wastage through effective product discontinuation.
- Drive operational performance across the business to increase efficiency and enhance profitability, while also managing subcontractors to ensure quality standards and delivery objectives are met.
- Build, lead and inspire a high-performing team, ensuring effective recruitment, training and development strategies are in place Improve production processes, review methodologies and reduce waste
- Develop and implement quality control procedures and systems, to ensure all products meet or exceed quality standards and specifications
- Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans for the production department
- Promote a safe working environment and conduct regular safety audits to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
Skills and Competencies Required
- Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within a comparably sized printing business.
- Proven track record of successfully transforming and enhancing manufacturing functions NEBOSH and safety qualifications would be advantageous but not essential
- Comprehensive production planning expertise in a comparable manufacturing environment, preferably print
- Ability to think strategically and execute tactically
- A charismatic leader who clearly demonstrates an ability to empower and motivate a team