Production Manager

Medical Device Precision Engineering (Orthopaedic Instruments & Implants) We are seeking a hands-on Production Manager to lead day-to-day manufacturing operations in a growing, regulated medical device environment. The role is accountable for safe, compliant, and efficient production while embedding operational discipline, developing team capability, and driving continuous improvement. Operating in a period of transition and growth, this role suits a leader comfortable with ambiguity and building standards where they do not yet exist. The Production Manager will work closely with the OpEx Manager to embed governance, Tier accountability, problem-solving, and visual management, and will play a key role in stabilising operations as the current Production Director transitions into an NPI-focused role. Apply Electric discharge machining department at Kirkstall Precision Key Responsibilities Leadership & Capability Build a safety-first, quality-focused culture with clear accountability and strong teamwork. Lead, coach, and develop Team Leaders and production teams in daily management, problem-solving, and people leadership. Set daily and weekly priorities, allocate resources, and support workforce training and development. Contribute to S&OP and longer-term capacity, staffing, and investment planning. Production Operations Own daily manufacturing performance, ensuring targets for quality, cost, delivery, and safety are met. Ensure compliance with ISO 13485, GMP, and internal QMS requirements. Monitor and improve key production KPIs (output, yield, scrap, setup time, labour utilisation). Ensure equipment, tooling, and fixtures are maintained, calibrated, and fit for purpose. Operational Excellence & Improvement Co-lead operational governance with OpEx, including Tier meetings, escalation, and action tracking. Embed Standard Work and ensure consistent application through Team Leaders. Lead continuous improvement using Lean, 5S, Kaizen, SMED, and structured problem-solving. Support NCR, CAPA, and deviation investigations with robust, data-driven corrective actions. Planning & Coordination Partner with Planning, Supply Chain, Engineering, NPI, and Quality to ensure effective scheduling, material, and tool availability. Input into the S&OP process Identify and mitigate risks to output (capacity, materials, equipment, staffing). Provide clear, timely reporting on performance, risks, and trends. Compliance & Audit Readiness Ensure production activities are fully documented and audit-ready at all times. Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits. Approve manufacturing documentation, including batch records, work instructions, and change controls. Skills & Experience 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing or operations leadership, ideally in medical devices, precision engineering, aerospace, food, FMCG or another regulated sector. Strong knowledge of ISO 13485, GMP, or regulated manufacturing environments. Proven track record in team leadership, operational improvement, and performance management. Experience with Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, and CI methodologies. Strong planning, organisational, and communication skills. Engineering, Manufacturing, or Operations degree (or equivalent experience) preferred.. What We Offer A high-impact leadership role in a growing medical device business. A collaborative, improvement-driven culture. The opportunity to contribute directly to the manufacture of life-changing medical devices.. Hours 7am – 3:30pm (2:30pm on Fridays). Occasional evening shift, and weekend overtime cover may be necessary. Contract 12-month Fixed Term To apply: Email your CV and three reasons you are interested in working for us to: info@kirkstallprecision.co.uk