Production Manager

Production Manager

Location: ThatchamWorking Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am - 4:00pm or 6:00am - 3:00pmSalary: £28,000 - £31,000 per annum (DOE)

We are recruiting for an experienced and hands-on Production/Operations Manager to join a fast-paced commercial environment known for delivering high-quality service. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive leader who thrives in a busy setting and can effectively manage both people and processes-particularly as the business approaches its peak summer period.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations from intake through to dispatch, ensuring smooth workflow across the production line
• Lead daily morning briefings to review performance, set targets, and address any operational challenges
• Monitor and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Ensure compliance with health & safety and operational procedures
• Continuously identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and support a diverse workforce, including individuals with varying levels of English fluency
• Train, develop, and regularly review team performance
• Effectively plan staffing levels in line with workload and budgets
• Provide hands-on support when needed, including stepping in early (from 6am) in the absence of a Team Leader

Quality & Customer Service

• Maintain high service standards and resolve issues quickly and effectively
• Act as a key point of contact for clients, ensuring expectations are consistently met
• Support onboarding of new clients, including planning resources and workflow integration

Stock & Equipment Management

• Manage stock levels and ensure timely ordering of supplies
• Oversee equipment maintenance, minimising downtime and disruption

Finance & Reporting

• Assist with budget management and cost control
• Analyse operational data to identify trends and drive improvements
• Provide regular performance updates to the Operations Director

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in operations or team management (laundry or production environment advantageous)
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to engage and communicate across diverse teams
• Highly organised with excellent multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment
• Calm under pressure with strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach
• Confident using Microsoft Office and reporting systems

Personal Attributes

• Strong organisational and administrative skills, with attention to detail
• Excellent customer service mindset
• A positive, can-do attitude and approachable leadership style
• Ability to think quickly, make decisions, and keep operations running smoothly in a busy production setting

Benefits

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Company pension scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Complimentary refreshments (tea, coffee, soft drinks, and summer treats)
• No weekend or bank holiday work (unless business-critical)