Job Description

Rheinmetall UK Manufacturing Director (Telford based)

Rheinmetall Defence UK Ltd in Almondsbury Bristol

Rheinmetall /

Rheinmetall UK Manufacturing Director (Telford based)

Ref.-Nr.:

UK00598

Schedule type:

Full Time

Contract Type:

Permanent Full-Time

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Job Purpose

To lead and oversee all manufacturing operations related to defence vehicles, ensuring high standards of quality, safety, cost-efficiency, and timely delivery. The Manufacturing Director will align manufacturing strategy with overall business goals, supporting innovation, continuous improvement, and compliance with defence and regulatory requirements.



We are seeking a

high-calibre Manufacturing Director

to lead our production operations defence vehicle manufacturing. Delivering business objectives, driving operational excellence and supporting our UK defence capability.



This is a leadership position for a

determined, results-driven individual

with a proven track record of managing complex manufacturing operations at scale - ideally within a regulated, high integrity sector such as defence, aerospace, automotive or heavy engineering.

Key Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end manufacturing operations for defence vehicle production, including assembly, fabrication, quality assurance, and logistics. Ensuring high performance against quality, cost, delivery and safety targets Develop and execute a long-term manufacturing strategy aligned with business and defence sector objectives. Champion a culture of Continuous Improvement using lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste. Manage budgets, forecasts, capital investment planning, and cost-control measures. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, defence clients, and key suppliers. Inspire, lead, mentor, and develop the manufacturing team to maintain a high-performance culture focussed on accountability, high standards and continuous development. Collaborate with R&D, design, and engineering teams on product industrialisation and new vehicle introductions. Maintain strict adherence to health and safety protocols and risk management practices. Implement digital manufacturing tools and Industry 4.0 technologies where applicable.


WHAT QUALIFICATIONS YOU SHOULD HAVE

Required Qualifications & Experience

Significant senior leadership experience in manufacturing or operations director role, ideally in the defence, automotive, or heavy equipment sectors. Demonstrable track record in successfully leading complex manufacturing operations and large teams. In-depth knowledge of defence manufacturing standards, quality systems, and regulatory compliance. Strong background in Continuous Improvement (CI), lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies. Experience with ERP and digital manufacturing systems. Demonstrated experience managing CAPEX projects and strategic planning.

Key Skills & Competencies

Determined operator, results driven Strategic thinking and decision-making Strong leadership and team-building Excellent communication and stakeholder management High level of integrity and ethical standards Problem-solving and analytical ability CI certification preferred Resilience and adaptability in a high-security environment WHAT WE OFFER YOU


A competitive salary, that also includes an annual incentive based on your performance in the role 25 days holiday and the option to buy a further 5 days Match contribution pension scheme Private Medical cover Salary sacrifice benefits such as cycle to work Electronic Vehicle Scheme Flexible working hours and location split between home and office An opportunity to join the company at a really exciting time of growth and an opportunity to develop this key role in support of that growth.

Watch this video: https://youtu.be/naXp_dt5PYM


CONTACT INFORMATION


uk.hr@rheinmetall.com