Machine Shop Manager

About Us:

Our company roots go back to the early 19th Century. In 1812, William Westley Richards & Co. founded the firm of Westley Richards—an engineer who specialised in the development and manufacture of firearms for sporting and military use.

In 1998, these were formally split into Westley Richards and Westley Engineering, reflecting their respective specialisms. In 2008, both companies moved to neighbouring purpose-designed premises and continue to thrive side-by-side from a location our customers find incredibly convenient.

Westley Engineering is also an AS9100 and TS16949 Accredited Tooling, Presswork, and Machine Shop business based in large, modern premises close to Birmingham's city centre. Our largest customers are Tier 1 Aerospace and Automotive businesses, but we also supply smaller businesses, such as online retailers.

Job Summary:

The machine shop manager reports directly to the Managing Director and is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of our machine shop. The shop has a full suite of CNC machines, including multiple milling machines (3 and 5 axis), a lathe, and EDM spark and wire eroding machines.

This role involves managing a team of 5 staff members, quoting work, planning work and meeting production targets, leading the team with technical expertise, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining machinery. The ideal candidate will have a strong hands-on background in machining, milling, lathes, and EDM machines, on and offline programming, leadership experience, and a commitment to quality and efficiency.

You will work with the senior management team across the business, including the tool room and press shop, to support the common goals. You will also be the lead interface with our sister company, gunmaker Westley Richards and Co Ltd, to develop and refine components for their rifles and shotguns.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management:

Plan and coordinate daily production schedules to meet customer demands and deadlines.

Hands-on involvement with programming and running machines when necessary.

Support staff with technical expertise at the machines.

Ensure optimal utilisation of machinery and personnel.

Work to, and develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for machine shop operations.

Customer and Sales:

Work with sales manager to assist in preparing RFQs for existing and new customers

Correspond with existing customers for ongoing work, queries, and customer deliveries

Onboard new work into the machine shop NPI processes.

Quality Control:

Oversee quality assurance processes in the department to adhere to quality standards and maintain high standards of product quality.

Address and resolve any issues related to product defects or process inefficiencies.

Supervision and Leadership:

Lead, mentor, and supervise a team of machinists, technicians, and support staff.

Attend SMT meetings to discuss business performance, business development, APQP, and other ad-hoc meetings.

Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and implement training programs.

Maintenance and Safety:

Ensure all machinery and equipment are maintained in good working condition.

Work to enforce adherence to the company’s H&S policies and regulations to create a safe working environment.

Conduct regular safety inspections and training sessions.

Continuous Improvement:

Identify and implement process improvements to enhance productivity and efficiency.

Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

Inventory and Budget Management:

Manage inventory levels of raw materials, tools, and consumables.

Develop and manage the machine shop budget, including labour, materials, and equipment.

Experience:

* Minimum of 8 years of experience in a machine shop environment.

* At least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role is preferred.

Skills:

* Proficiency in operating CNC machines.

* Proficiency in 5-axis milling

* Ability to quote new work from drawings and onboard it through NPI processes.

* Programming/Offline Programming using CADCAM software.

* Strong leadership and team management skills.

* Intermediate computer skills.

* Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

* Knowledge of quality systems and H&S regulations.

* Strong organisational and communication skills.

Benefits:

* Competitive salary and annual performance-based bonus.

* Healthcare and Benefits Package.

* Salary Sacrifice EV Scheme.

* Company Pension.

* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

* Free onsite parking.

Westley Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees