Job Description

Cutting Edge Music Tech - On-Demand Vinyl Records

We're looking for a

Manufacturing Process & Transformation Manager

at elasticStage. You will lead and optimise manufacturing workflows while also driving broader operational transformation initiatives.The company has invented a new technology to produce on-demand vinyl records and built a web platform for music creators to create and sell their products worldwide via our store at zero cost. We are working with the leading record labels, streaming services, digital service providers, distributors, and iconic global artists who are keen to partner with us to build a global solution for physical media. But most of all, we would also like to give small artists and artists at the beginning of their careers frictionless access to offer vinyl and CD to their fans via our innovative solution and planned production/fulfilment centres in Europe, the USA and Asia. The vinyl market has been growing on average more than 20% yearly over the last 16 years, and even CDs are growing for the first time in two decades. Over 30 million creators are releasing their music online today, and they are growing 30% a year. They represent the fastest-growing music segment. Most of them would like to have their music on vinyl or CD for their friends & family, and especially their fans. elasticStage will provide them with easy and affordable access via its unique and scalable on-demand tech.


As a

Manufacturing Process & Transformation Manager

, you will be responsible for strategic process design, capability development, and the implementation of lean and continuous improvement principles, including Kaizen. Additionally, you will act as Product Owner of our Factory Management System (MES/ERP platform), ensuring that the software enables the target workflow. Ultimately, your mandate is to compress lead-time, lower cost-per-vinyl, grow throughput, and ready the organisation for an upcoming move to a larger site, all while embedding a rigorous data-driven, performance-centred culture on the production floor.

Requirements

Analyse and redesign manufacturing workflows to improve efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Apply needed tools (Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen) to eliminate waste, standardise best practice, and hit target reductions Develop in-house capability for operating-model design, process automation, and value-stream mapping. Model future-state flows/layouts and deliver a phased capacity-scaling roadmap for the new factory site. Stay current on industry trends, continuously injecting innovation into operations. Lead continuous improvement initiatives. Partner with Supply Chain to streamline inbound material flow, minimise WIP, and reduce storage costs.

Quality & Compliance

Partner with QA and Production to uphold ISO/customer standards and internal SOPs. Lead root-cause investigations and close the loop with preventive/corrective actions. Prepare for and host customer / third-party audits; track audit actions to completion.

Technology & Equipment Optimisation

Oversee equipment preventative and corrective strategies to maximise OEE. Evaluate and justify new machinery or digital tools that accelerate throughput and labour productivity.
Recommend and implement tools for enhanced equipment utilisation and data capture.

Transformation Program & Product Ownership

Act as Product Owner for our Factory Management System (MES/ERP): gather requirements, write user stories, prioritise backlog, and manage releases and adoption end-to-end. Maintain visibility over all transformation projects, ensuring excellence in delivery and identifying gaps in execution.
Work closely with senior leadership to translate strategic goals into actionable work-streams.

Data & reporting

Build a factory-wide data culture: define metrics, own single-source dashboards, and coach teams in data-driven decisions. Produce weekly/monthly performance reports and keep SOPs, work instructions, and change logs current.

Employee Performance Management & Incentives

Support the Operations head in establishing role-level KPIs aligned to process targets; deploy real-time tracking boards on the shop floor. Design and manage fair incentive schemes that reward adherence to the target workflow process (including achievement of safety, quality, delivery, and cost goals).
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Qualifications:

5 + years in manufacturing process management, operational excellence, or transformation roles. Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Experience acting as a Product Owner or Product Manager for internal systems, such as MES, ERP, or custom-built applications. Demonstrated ability to lead and coach teams through change and capability development. Familiarity with manufacturing systems, automation tools, and production technologies. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a track record of measurable results. Excellent communication and leadership skills, capable of engaging cross-functional stakeholders.

Benefits

Industry-Leading Salary Package:

Enjoy a highly competitive salary package that rewards your expertise and hard work.

Generous Paid Holiday:

Take advantage of 25 days of paid holiday to relax and recharge.

Comprehensive Pension Scheme:

Secure your future with our robust pension scheme.

Convenient On-Site Parking:

Benefit from hassle-free on-site parking.

Cutting-Edge Tech Office Environment:

Work in a modern, tech-driven office environment equipped with the latest tools and technology.

Medical Insurance:

Protect yourself with our comprehensive medical insurance plan.

Free Snacks and Beverages:

Enjoy free snacks and beverages to keep you energised throughout the day.
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Work Location

* This role is onsite, based in our vibrant Elstree office (WD6) five days a week.