Production Manager

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Company Description

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection's threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Production Manager to lead our manufacturing operations team onsite at Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire.

Successful applicants will have a strong production background, preferably in aerospace, though we welcome talent from the medical and food industries.

A proven track record in continuous improvement and Lean Six Sigma practices is essential to succeed in this role.

Due to the sensitive nature of the projects we work on, we can only consider British Citizens, or EU Settled status that have lived in the UK for over 5 years as we would need to put you through SC level clearance.

As Production Manager, you will be responsible for managing a team to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective production aligned with our financial targets. This role requires excellent leadership and communication skills, along with a solid foundation in problem-solving.

You will support the development and execution of production plans, oversee capacity and resource planning, and ensure products are delivered on time, meeting quality standards.

• Lead the production team to achieve site goals and objectives, focusing on continuous improvement and lean methodologies.
• Drive operational KPIs using visual management, problem-solving tools, and other lean techniques to enhance daily efficiency.
• Cultivate a proactive approach to Health, Safety, and Environmental standards, fostering a world-class manufacturing environment.
• Develop an agile and skilled workforce, maintaining high competency levels and reducing critical skill gaps.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Supply Chain, Quality, Engineering, Technology, Sales, and Facilities) to meet or exceed operations targets.
• Ensure the smooth transition of new products from design to manufacturing.
• Resolve production challenges in real-time, implementing corrective actions to drive improvements.
• Support the Integrated Business Planning (IBP) process with accurate and actionable data.

Qualifications

• HND in Management Studies or a related qualification.
• Management experience in a manufacturing environment, with proficiency in SAP, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other business applications.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to personal and team development.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of lean manufacturing principles
• Effective and results-driven decision-making in complex, global environments.
• Leadership skills to inspire, guide, and support team performance and growth.
• Commercial awareness to align actions with business success.
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills across internal and external networks.
• A proactive mindset toward change and continuous improvement initiatives.

Additional Information

We offer...

Join us and we'll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You'll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You'll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.

Join us and work for a world-leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation - including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career's website (Careers - Smiths Group plc)