Director of Global Manufacturing Operations

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Director of Global Manufacturing Operations to lead and scale manufacturing performance across multiple international sites.

This is a senior leadership role requiring both strategic oversight and hands-on execution. You will work cross-functionally with engineering, commercial, and supply chain teams to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, complex components to a global customer base.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute global manufacturing strategy across existing and future sites
• Lead site manufacturing teams, ensuring alignment on performance, standards, and best practice
• Build and scale high-performing manufacturing operations, setting benchmarks for quality and efficiency
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean principles to optimise cost, output, and performance
• Oversee production planning, capacity management, and resource allocation
• Lead new site setup, expansion, and commissioning activities internationally

Candidate Profile

• Highly autonomous operator, comfortable owning global manufacturing performance end-to-end
• Strong commercial mindset with a focus on margins, efficiency, and delivery
• Deep, hands-on understanding of manufacturing environments and processes
• Proven ability to scale operations in high-growth or complex technical environments

Experience Required

• 10+ years in senior manufacturing leadership roles
• Experience managing multi-site, international operations
• Background in composites, aerospace, defence, or advanced materials is highly advantageous
• Strong understanding of regulated quality environments such as AS9100
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams
• Willingness to travel internationally

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Long-term incentive potential
• Opportunity to play a key role in scaling a high-growth, technology-led manufacturing business
• Direct impact on shaping next-generation engineering solutions