Workshop & Production Manager

Role Overview

This leadership position places you at the heart of a busy vehicle manufacturing operation, where you will take ownership of the entire assembly floor from scheduling through to final dispatch. You will coordinate multiple production teams, balance daily targets against available resources, and act as the key link between planning, procurement, and the hands-on assembly and finishing departments. Your work directly determines whether the plant meets its delivery commitments while maintaining the high build quality and safety standards the company is known for.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain realistic production schedules that align with customer orders, then run daily coordination meetings to align procurement, logistics, powder coating, and spray painting teams around those targets.
• Oversee all assembly line activities, tracking output, cycle times, and downtime, and step in with immediate corrective measures whenever output falls behind plan.
• Collaborate closely with quality control personnel to investigate recurring defects, root out their causes, and introduce preventive measures so finished vehicles consistently pass inspection.
• Supervise, coach, and develop shift supervisors, technicians, and assembly operators by identifying skill gaps, arranging targeted training, and carrying out regular performance reviews.
• Champion workplace safety by enforcing company policies, leading hazard assessments, and making sure every team member follows mandatory health and safety regulations.
• Identify and implement process improvements that reduce waste, shorten lead times, and lower production costs, applying lean manufacturing principles such as Kaizen and staying up to date with industry best practices.
• Manage the production budget, plan resource allocation, monitor raw material and component inventory levels, and coordinate with maintenance teams to keep equipment running at peak reliability.
• Understand the full capability of each machine on the floor, from CNC laser cutters to press brake benders, and support preventative maintenance programmes that minimise unplanned stoppages.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering.
• At least 10 years of hands-on managerial experience in a manufacturing environment, with proven expertise in metal fabrication using both steel and aluminium, vehicle parts fitment, welding, CKD assembly, CNC laser cutting, press brake operation, shot blasting, spray painting, and powder coating.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and job briefs accurately, with a keen eye for detail.
• Solid computer literacy, including practical experience using an ERP system with a dedicated production module.
• Demonstrated understanding of Kaizen work practices and how to apply them to drive continuous improvement on the shop floor.
• Proven people management skills, including motivating teams, resolving conflicts, and building a culture of accountability.
• Excellent communication skills, comfortable giving clear feedback to operators, peers, and senior management, and able to support both upward and downward information flow.
• Professional proficiency in written and spoken English.