Production Manager

Company
W Talent Manufacturing are supporting a well-established metal manufacturing business based in South Yorkshire. This company specialises in the production and processing of high-quality metal components, supplying into a range of industrial sectors. With a strong reputation for reliability, craftsmanship, and operational excellence, the business is continuing to invest in its people and processes.
As part of this growth, they are now looking to appoint an experienced Production Manager to lead shop floor operations and drive performance across their manufacturing facility.
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on and driven Production Manager with experience in metal-based manufacturing environments such as fabrication, machining, or metal processing. This role will take full responsibility for day-to-day production activities, leading a team of approximately 20-25 technical operatives.
The successful candidate will play a key role in improving productivity, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring safe and efficient operations, while fostering a positive and high-performing team culture.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Head of Operations, the Production Manager will be responsible for:
* Leading, motivating, and developing a team of 20-25 operatives across manufacturing operations
* Ensuring daily production targets are met in line with customer demand and business objectives
* Driving a strong health & safety culture, ensuring full compliance with all regulations and site procedures
* Planning and coordinating production schedules to optimise workflow and resource utilisation
* Monitoring performance through KPIs (output, efficiency, scrap, downtime) and implementing improvements
* Identifying opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency
* Supporting continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles
* Working closely with engineering, maintenance, and quality teams to resolve production issues quickly
* Maintaining high product quality standards and ensuring adherence to specifications
* Managing staffing levels, training, and development to ensure a skilled and flexible workforce
Key Requirements
* Proven experience in a Production Manager or Supervisory role within metal manufacturing (e.g. fabrication, machining, steel processing)
* Strong leadership experience managing shop floor teams of similar size (20+ employees)
* Good understanding of manufacturing processes, machinery, and production workflows within a metals environment
* Experience implementing Lean / continuous improvement methodologies
* Strong problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on approach
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment
* Good working knowledge of health & safety regulations (NEBOSH or IOSH desirable)
* Effective communicator with the ability to engage and influence at all levels
What's on Offer
* Competitive salary
* Supportive and stable working environment
* Opportunities for progression as the business continues to grow
* The chance to make a tangible impact on shop floor performance and team development