Full job descriptionProduction Manager
Location: Chelmsford

Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Join Our Growing Team
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Production Manager to lead our clients’ fibre cabling production operations. This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on manufacturing professional with strong leadership skills and a passion for driving quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced production environment.
As Production Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end manufacturing process of fibre optic cable assemblies and related products, ensuring production targets, quality standards, and customer delivery requirements are consistently achieved.
Key Responsibilities
*Lead and manage daily production activities within the fibre cabling manufacturing department.
*Ensure production schedules are achieved safely, efficiently, and on time.
*Manage, coach, and develop production teams to maximise performance and engagement.
*Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.
*Monitor key production metrics and implement actions to achieve operational targets.
*Ensure all products meet customer specifications and quality requirements.
*Work closely with Planning, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to optimise production flow.
*Manage labour resources, capacity planning, and shift requirements.
*Implement and maintain Lean Manufacturing and 5S practices throughout the department.
*Reduce waste, rework, and downtime through effective problem-solving and root cause analysis.
*Ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations and company procedures.
*Support customer audits and quality improvement initiatives where required.
About You
We are looking for a dynamic leader who can effectively balance people management, operational performance, and customer expectations.
Essential Requirements
*Proven experience in a Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager, or Operations Manager role.
*Experience working within a manufacturing or production environment.
*Strong leadership and team management skills.
*Excellent planning, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
*Experience managing KPIs, production targets, and operational performance.
*Good understanding of quality systems and continuous improvement techniques.
*Strong communication skills with the ability to engage teams at all levels.
*Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.
Desirable Requirements
*Experience within fibre optics, fibre cabling, telecommunications, electronics, or cable assembly manufacturing.
*Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
*IOSH or NEBOSH Health & Safety qualification.
*Engineering or Manufacturing qualification.
What We Offer
*Competitive salary.
*Career development and progression opportunities.
*Supportive and collaborative working environment.
*Company pension scheme.
*Holiday entitlement.
*Employee benefits package.
*Opportunity to play a key role in a growing and innovative business