Head of Operations - Aerospace Interiors

Purpose

This is an excellent opportunity for a high-calibre manufacturing leader to progress into a Head of Operations role and play a pivotal role in delivering world-class aerospace interior programmes to OEM’s and key airline customers.

We are seeking an experienced Operations leader to lead manufacturing operations within our Aerospace Interiors site at Cambridge, with primary responsibility for New Product Introduction (NPI) activities along with close collaboration with our offshore serial production facility.

The successful candidate will work alongside the existing contractor to take on sole accountability for Operations and play a critical leadership role in ensuring seamless transition from design and development through to stable serial production, driving operational excellence, quality, delivery performance and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead all production activities relating to Aerospace Interior programmes at the primary NPI manufacturing site while supporting Aftermarket Excellence.

* Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Programme Management and Business Support teams to ensure effective DFMA and Change Management.

* Manage the successful introduction of new products from testing, head of version and first article inspection to handing over a stable build for serial production.

* Collaborate closely with offshore serial production facilities to ensure smooth production transfer, process alignment, and operational readiness.

* Drive manufacturing strategy, capacity planning, production readiness and resource management.

* Report to the Senior Team and attend senior meetings as required.

* Ensure compliance with all aerospace quality, regulatory and safety standards, including all internal procedures and processes.

* Develop and maintain robust production processes, KPIs, and performance management systems.

* Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, cost reduction, quality improvement, and on-time delivery.

* Build, develop, and mentor high-performing production teams and leadership structures.

* Support customer audits, programme reviews, and operational reporting requirements.

*This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. The successful job holder will be expected to perform varying tasks as required by their line manager & the overall objectives of the organisation.

Candidate Profile

* Proven senior leadership experience within aerospace manufacturing, ideally aerospace interiors.

* Strong experience in New Product Introduction (NPI) and production transfer.

* Ability to collaborate with offshore or international serial production sites.

* Strong understanding of aerospace regulatory and quality requirements.

* Demonstrated success in leading complex manufacturing operations and delivering operational improvements.

* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

* Strong commercial and operational awareness, maintaining strong financial stewardship.

* Degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related discipline preferred.

Key Attributes

* Strategic and operational leadership capability

* Able to employ lean methodology thinking

* Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

* Results-driven with a focus on quality and delivery

* Collaborative leadership style driving a culture of engagement

* High level of accountability and professionalism

Please note;

* Numerous positions at AVIC Cabin Systems UK LTD are governed by security and export control regulations. These rules indicate that elements such as your nationality/ any prior nationalities you may have held, and your birthplace can influence the positions you are qualified to undertake within the organisation. All candidates must at least meet the baseline personnel security standard. Additionally, certain roles demand elevated levels of National security vetting.

ACS UK ltd is an equal opportunities employer