Assistant Production Manager

Location: Princes Risborough

Hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 06:30 – 16:45

• Friday: 06:30 – 12:30

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Assistant Production Manager to join our bespoke manufacturing operation in Princes Risborough.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a business renowned for quality craftsmanship, where you'll play a key role in leading production teams, driving performance, and ensuring every product leaving the factory meets the highest standards.

Working closely with the Production Manager, you'll take ownership of daily production activities, support and develop production teams, and help drive continuous improvement across the manufacturing operation.

This role would suit an ambitious Production Supervisor, Team Leader, Assistant Production Manager, or existing Shift Manager looking to further develop their career within a quality-focused manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management

• Lead daily production activities to ensure customer orders are completed safely, efficiently, and on time.

• Support production planning and scheduling to meet business demands and delivery targets.

• Monitor workflow and production performance, taking proactive action to resolve issues and minimise downtime.

• Ensure effective utilisation of labour, materials, machinery, and workspace.

• Drive productivity while maintaining exceptional quality standards.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure products are manufactured to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

• Conduct regular quality checks throughout the production process.

• Investigate and resolve quality issues, implementing corrective actions where required.

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance operational performance.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the factory.

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and support production teams on a day-to-day basis.

• Promote a positive culture focused on teamwork, accountability, and pride in workmanship.

• Assist with employee training, onboarding, and skills development.

• Monitor attendance, productivity, and performance standards.

• Provide coaching and support to help individuals and teams achieve their full potential.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all activities are carried out in accordance with health and safety policies and procedures.

• Maintain high standards of housekeeping and workplace organisation.

• Promote a safe working environment and lead by example on the shop floor.

Operational Support

• Support the Production Manager in delivering operational objectives and business improvements.

• Act as deputy for the Production Manager when required.

• Assist with projects aimed at improving productivity, quality, and employee engagement.

About You

We're looking for a proactive and engaging leader who enjoys being visible on the shop floor and leading from the front.

You will have:

• Previous experience in a Production Supervisor, Team Leader, Shift Manager, Assistant Production Manager, or similar manufacturing leadership role.

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production workflows.

• Excellent people management and communication skills.

• A hands-on approach with a passion for quality and operational excellence.

• Strong problem-solving and organisational abilities.

• Experience working within a bespoke, craft, furniture, upholstery, mattress, textile, or similar manufacturing environment would be advantageous.

• Good understanding of health and safety within a manufacturing setting.

Key Performance Indicators

Success in this role will be measured through:

• On-time completion of production orders.

• Achievement of production schedules and delivery targets.

• Reduction in defects, rework, and material waste.

• Quality performance and customer satisfaction.

• Labour utilisation and productivity improvements.

• Team attendance, engagement, and retention.

• Health and safety compliance.

Why Join Us?

• Join a well-established and respected manufacturer.

• Be part of a business that takes pride in quality craftsmanship.

• Opportunity to influence and improve production performance.

• Supportive management team and positive working culture.

• Early finish every Friday.

• Genuine opportunity for career progression and personal development.

If you're a motivated manufacturing leader looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Vanta Staffing are working as a recruitment agency for this role