Director of Manufacturing Operations

Meritus are supporting a large Defence and Aerospace manufacturer preparing for a significant production ramp up tied to next generation programmes. As part of this growth, they're seeking a Director of Manufacturing Operations to lead all aspects of production delivery, workforce planning, and contractor integration at site level.

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS - £105,000 TO £155,00PA - HYBRID 3 DAYS ONSITE - SC CLEARANCE OR ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED

• Own site level manufacturing operations across multiple product lines with strict delivery schedules

• Lead and optimise the integration of permanent and contract labour to meet throughput goals.

• Previous experience of handling a large contract workforce is required.

• Build a scalable manufacturing model in line with projected output increases over the next 18-24 months

• Work closely with Programme Management, Engineering, and Quality to ensure on time, in spec production

• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives while ensuring full labour compliance and contractor oversight

• Develop and execute a strategic workforce plan aligned with business demand and customer milestones

• Support the introduction of automation, new lines, and industrialisation activity

• Proven leadership in high mix, high output electronics and/or precision manufacturing

• Track record of managing large mixed workforces (perm + contract) across demanding production environments

• Comfortable operating in secure, regulated sectors (defence, aerospace, critical infrastructure)

• Strong working knowledge of lean principles, OEE, and workforce efficiency models

• Strategic thinker who can also drive day to day operational delivery

• SC clearance or eligibility required

This is a critical site leadership role reporting into the VP of Operations, with visibility at the board level and a direct influence on long term capacity planning. Competitive package including bonus and relocation support where required.