Manufacturing Director

Job description / Role

Job purpose

The organisation is seeking an accomplished and strategic manufacturing director to lead and oversee all manufacturing operations for advanced defence products. This pivotal role requires a leader with a proven background in armaments production, exceptional supply chain expertise, and an in-depth understanding of the global defence landscape. The manufacturing director will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and security throughout the end-to-end manufacturing process.

Key responsibilities

• Operational leadership: Direct and manage the entire manufacturing lifecycle for defence products, including arms, ammunition, and precision systems (e.g. unmanned aerial vehicles/drones).
• Supply chain management: Oversee the end-to-end defence supply chain, from strategic sourcing of raw materials to final product delivery, ensuring resilience, security, and compliance with stringent international standards.
• Production excellence: Drive manufacturing excellence by implementing world-class processes, lean principles, and advanced technologies to optimise productivity, reduce costs, and ensure impeccable quality control.
• Supplier and market intelligence: Manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers.
  Maintain a deep understanding of competitor activities, market dynamics, and emerging technologies within the global defence sector.
• Compliance and security: Ensure all manufacturing activities and supply chain logistics adhere to the highest levels of regulatory compliance, security protocols, and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) equivalent standards.
• Budget and strategy: Develop and manage the manufacturing budget, forecast operational needs, and contribute to the long-term strategic growth of the division.
• Team development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers, production managers, and technical staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, business administration, or a related field. A master’s degree is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, with at least 10 years specifically within the defence industry.
• Must-have expertise in manufacturing arms, ammunition, and/or precision defence products (e.g. drones, guided systems, electronic warfare).
• Proven experience managing a complex, end-to-end defence supply chain.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the global defence market, including key Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers and competitors.
• Strong preference for candidates with experience in Asian or Eastern European defence markets.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills.

Note: Only applicants meeting the strict criteria outlined above will be contacted as part of the shortlisting process.