ADS Laser Cutting is the premier metal laser cutting, folding, fabrication, finishing, and assembly company in the UK. The business is family-run, driven by a passion for quality and a commitment to exceptional service. The company works on a wide range of projects, from intricate designs to volume components, and its work can be found in Siemens’ rail systems, London Underground (TfL) trains, and Lancôme Fragrances displays. The company’s success is built on its team of highly skilled and valued employees. Their expertise and dedication translate into exceptional service and quality for customers. Since its founding, ADS has grown significantly year on year, supported by continued investment in the latest technology, machinery, infrastructure, and—most importantly—its talented people. The company now employs over 100 staff in an 87,000-square-foot facility, ensuring it has the resources to deliver exceptional results on every project. Due to continued growth, ADS is seeking a highly motivated Production Assembly & Finishing Manager. Role Profile The Production Assembly & Finishing Manager is responsible for overseeing the entire assembly and finishing operations across multiple production areas. The role ensures that all assembly and paint activities are executed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards, meeting both customer specifications and company objectives. The manager will drive operational performance, lead a skilled team, and maintain effective workflow management to ensure all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification. Benefits Non-contractual quarterly bonus scheme. Life assurance. Above-statutory holiday entitlement with additional service-linked holiday. 40-hour working week: Monday to Thursday 06:30–15:30, Friday 06:30–12:30. Flexibility in working hours to meet operational needs. On-site gym. Pension scheme. Commitment to investing in training and development. Company-provided workwear and PPE. On-site parking. Staff canteen. Employee Assistance Programme. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Oversee and manage all assembly and paint line operations, ensuring smooth, efficient, and high-quality output. Collaborate with the Production Director to plan and implement daily and weekly production schedules. Drive a culture of on-time job completion to maximise delivery performance and customer satisfaction. Monitor production workflow, proactively identify bottlenecks, and implement effective corrective measures. Ensure all assembly and finishing operations follow established procedures and safety standards. Process & Quality Management Ensure all staff consistently follow standard operating procedures, inspection checklists, and quality control processes. Ensure the team meets customer specifications and completes jobs within estimated timeframes. Lead initiatives to improve first-time accuracy, reduce rework, and enhance overall productivity. Work closely with the Quality Department to address non-conformances and customer issues promptly. Ensure all time logging on the ERP system is accurate and up to date to support traceability and performance tracking. Resource & Stock Control Monitor and manage stock levels of consumables, fittings, and coatings; reorder as needed in a cost-effective and timely manner. Ensure all subcontract and inter-departmental parts are received, checked, and picked in ample time to prevent production delays. Ensure efficient use of materials, tools, and manpower to meet production targets while minimising waste. Support effective planning for maintenance schedules to maximise equipment uptime and reliability. People Management Lead, motivate, and develop a multi-skilled team across assembly and paint operations. Conduct regular performance appraisals, set clear objectives, and provide constructive feedback. Oversee staff administration including overtime, holiday planning, absence management, and training requirements. Implement structured training programmes for new hires and existing team members to maintain high standards of workmanship. Take proactive action to address performance or conduct issues in line with company policies. Continuous Improvement Track and analyse monthly KPIs for productivity, first-time accuracy, on-time delivery (OTD), and rework costs. Champion Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives across all production areas. Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. Customer & Stakeholder Engagement Lead in clarifying customer queries and managing sensitive issues related to assembly and paint projects. Liaise with Operations, Quality, and Production teams to ensure customer requirements are fully met. Represent the Assembly and Paint Line functions in production and quality meetings. Other Responsibilities Ensure compliance with all Health, Safety, and Environmental policies. Undertake any other reasonable management tasks required to support operational success. This position is required to be 100% site-based. Skills, Experience & Personal Attributes Essential 5–10 years of experience in production or assembly management within a manufacturing environment. Strong project-management skills and the ability to coordinate multiple priorities. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, with the ability to analyse production data and produce performance reports. Familiarity with ERP systems and digital production tracking tools. A positive attitude towards innovation, change, and continuous learning. Flexibility in working hours to meet operational needs and support the team. Desirable Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience). Experience managing paint line operations (powder coating, preparation, shot-blasting). Competence in process analysis, workflow management, and performance reporting. Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent. Knowledge of emerging manufacturing technologies. Strong customer liaison skills and experience managing stakeholder expectations.