Director of Production

£100,000 / £120,000 per annum – South West – Must be from an aerospace or defence background – Undergo clearance – Rapidly expanding business

Our client is a leading innovator at the intersection of artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science and aerospace technology, delivering mission‑critical solutions that protect people, safeguard global infrastructure, and support space exploration. With a pioneering surveillance‑as‑a‑service offering, they provide real‑time intelligence that enhances maritime safety, environmental protection, and operational decision‑making across the most challenging environments – at sea, on land, in space, and within cyberspace.

Location: Bath or Bristol HQ (until the new Swindon site opens in 2026). The role is to establish and scale the UK manufacturing capability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and growth of the UK production and manufacturing function, including team development, process design and facility setup.
• Implement scalable, flexible manufacturing systems to support rapid iteration, prototyping, and small‑to‑medium batch production.
• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence across engineering and production teams.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional stakeholders to accelerate development cycles while maintaining outstanding product quality.
• Introduce modern digital and advanced manufacturing methods, including additive manufacturing, digital twins, and data‑driven production control.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality frameworks, including AS9100 / ISO9001.
• Manage supplier relationships and develop a resilient, responsive supply chain with strong UK content.
• Champion lean methodologies, Kaizen principles, and sustainability across materials, energy and process management.

Candidate Profile

• Proven leadership experience within aerospace, defence, or advanced technology manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of modern production techniques, lean manufacturing principles, and digital manufacturing technologies.
• Demonstrable experience establishing and scaling production teams, facilities, and systems.
• Track record of delivering complex engineered products to stringent performance and quality standards.
• Solid understanding of quality and regulatory frameworks (AS9100 / ISO9001).
• Strategic mindset with a collaborative, hands‑on leadership style.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence, coach and build high‑performing teams.