Production /operations Manager - Precision Engineering ManufacturerA precision engineering manufacturer operating across a mixed production environment-volume own-product manufacture, new product introduction (NPI) handover, high-spec subcontract machining, and aerospace & defence work-is seeking an experienced Production Manager to join the Senior Leadership Team and drive operational performance, delivery and quality as the business scales considerably.The roleYou'll take ownership of day-to-day production output and lead a skilled CNC workforce to achieve On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) delivery, stable operations and continuous improvement-while maintaining the discipline required for aerospace/defence compliance.Key responsibilitiesSenior Leadership & business performance

• Contribute to company strategy, growth planning and operational improvement as an SLT member
• Provide clear reporting on operational KPIs and performance trends
• Work cross-functionally (Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Planning) to protect margin and delivery

Operational leadership

• Own production output, delivery performance and operational stability across all product streams
• Lead capacity management with the Planner; control overtime strategically and commercially
• Ensure smooth NPI handover into operations and resolve bottlenecks with structured corrective actions

Aerospace & Defence compliance

• Ensure production compliance with aerospace/defence requirements and regulated quality systems (e.g., AS9100)
• Maintain traceability, configuration control and FAIR/First Article discipline
• Support internal/external audits and embed a right-first-time, zero-compromise quality culture

People leadership

• Lead, coach and develop Shopfloor Team Leaders/Machinists; build leadership capability on the floor
• Set clear standards, run structured 1-1s/reviews, and address underperformance promptly
• Retain key skilled personnel in a growing environment

What we're looking for

• 5+ years in production leadership within precision engineering or related manufacturing
• Experience in aerospace and/or defence manufacturing environments
• Strong CNC machining understanding (milling/turning) and credibility with experienced machinists
• Proven ability to improve productivity, utilisation, scrap/rework and overtime spend
• Confident with ERP/MRP systems and Excel for KPI reporting
• Calm, fair-but-firm, structured, commercially aware, and an effective cross-functional communicator.

This is a permanent job with a starting salary dependant on experience. You must have current UK right to work to be considered. HRGO are a recruitment agency supporting UK manufacturing. We aim to respond to all applications.