Production Manager

Location: Braintree, Essex

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Market 36 Recruitment are currently recruiting for a Production Manager on behalf of our client, a well-established and growing signage and graphics business based in Braintree.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and hands-on production professional to lead a busy production department responsible for the manufacture and installation of a wide range of signage products, including shop front signage, vehicle graphics, window graphics, digital print solutions, and CNC-cut products.

The successful candidate will oversee production operations, manage a small team, drive process improvements, and ensure projects are delivered to the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Main Purpose of the Role

To manage the day-to-day operations of the production department, ensuring all signage and graphics projects are manufactured and installed safely, efficiently, on time, and to the highest quality standards whilst leading and developing the production team.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily running of the production department.
• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, to specification, and within agreed deadlines.
• Manage and coordinate production schedules and allocate resources effectively.
• Operate and supervise digital printing equipment, laminators, vinyl cutters, and CNC cutting machinery.
• Monitor production quality and ensure all finished products meet company standards.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement effective solutions to minimise downtime.
• Lead, manage, and motivate a team of production staff.
• Provide ongoing training, support, and development to team members.
• Conduct performance reviews and promote a positive working environment.
• Lead by example through active participation in production activities.
• Organise and carry out signage installations when required.
• Conduct site surveys and assess installation requirements.
• Ensure installations are completed safely, professionally, and to the highest standard.

Additional Responsibilities

• Review and improve production workflows and operational efficiencies.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve productivity.
• Implement best practices throughout the production facility.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety compliance.
• Liaise closely with office and administration teams regarding production requirements.
• Monitor stock levels of materials and consumables.
• Support stock forecasting, purchasing, and supplier management activities.
• Ensure uninterrupted production through effective inventory management.

Experience, Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience within a signage, graphics, print, manufacturing, or production environment.
• Proven experience managing and developing production teams.
• Strong knowledge of digital printing, vinyl application, signage manufacture, and CNC cutting processes.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and production specifications.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across departments.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable Skills

• Experience using Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or similar design and production software.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations relating to signage production and installation.
• Experience implementing process improvements and lean manufacturing principles.

Personal Attributes

• Hands-on and proactive approach.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Positive attitude with a focus on teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Reliable, adaptable, and committed to delivering high-quality work.

Working Pattern & Benefits

Hours: Monday to Friday 40 hours a week

Benefits:???????

• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Varied and rewarding role within a growing business.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on operational performance and future growth.

Salary: £35,000 – £38,000 per annum (dependent on experience).

Market 36 Recruitment Ltd cover a range of sectors including Commercial, Industrial, Engineering, HR & Finance and IT. This vacancy is being advertised by Market 36 Recruitment Ltd. We operate as an Employment Business for temporary roles and as an Employment Agency for permanent roles.