Production Manager

Opportunity Review: Production Manager - Freightliner Heavy Haul Ltd, Ipswich

This review provides an in-depth look at the Production Manager position at Freightliner's Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF) in Ipswich. For ambitious professionals seeking to advance their careers in the heavy industry and logistics sector, this role presents a significant opportunity within the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Leadership in a Critical Sector: As a key member of the engineering leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe, reliable, and cost-effective maintenance of locomotives and wagons. This is a chance to directly influence operational excellence in a vital part of the UK's infrastructure.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: The role offers a platform to implement and champion lean manufacturing principles, continuously improve processes, and foster a culture of accountability and safety. If you're passionate about efficiency and innovation, this is the place to make your mark.
• Career Development and Growth: Freightliner is committed to fostering growth and providing developmental opportunities. This role is an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to expand their leadership capabilities and deepen their expertise in rail engineering and heavy haul operations.
• Impactful Role: You will be responsible for overseeing daily production activities, managing teams, collaborating with various departments, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders. Your contributions will have a direct and tangible impact on the company's success and customer satisfaction.
• Diverse Operational Exposure: Freightliner's operations span the UK and Europe, offering experience in both Intermodal and Heavy Haul rail freight. This role at the Ipswich VMF provides direct involvement in maintaining critical assets for these diverse operations.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Industry Experience: A proven track record in production or engineering leadership, ideally within the rail or heavy industry sectors, is essential. Strong knowledge of traction and rolling stock maintenance or similar technical disciplines will be a significant advantage.
• Technical Qualifications: Candidates are expected to possess relevant engineering qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3+, HNC/HND, or equivalent) demonstrating a solid technical foundation.
• Safety-First Mentality: The role places a paramount emphasis on safety. A demonstrated commitment to promoting safe working practices and a robust safety-first mindset are non-negotiable.
• Operational Demands: Participation in a weekend production call roster is a requirement, indicating the need for flexibility and a commitment to ensuring operational continuity.
• Pre-Employment Checks: Be prepared for standard pre-employment checks, including references, medical and D&A screening, and DBS background checks, which are part of Freightliner's commitment to a safe and reliable workforce.

Career Path Guidance:

This Production Manager position is ideal for an experienced engineering leader looking to solidify their expertise within a reputable and expansive logistics organization. Success in this role can pave the way for further leadership opportunities within Freightliner's engineering or operations functions, potentially leading to roles with broader scope, strategic planning responsibilities, or even cross-site management. The emphasis on continuous improvement and lean methodologies offers a valuable skill set that is transferable across many industrial sectors.

If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for operational excellence and a strong technical background, this role at Freightliner offers a compelling opportunity to shape the future of rail freight maintenance and logistics.