What is a production manager?
Production managers are responsible for the technical management, supervision and control of industrial production processes. They oversee the entire process of making raw products into usable products, from start to finish. They also make sure goods and services are produced safely, cost-effectively and on time and that they meet the required quality standards.
How to become a production manager?
To become a production manager, you could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in manufacturing. Courses at university often specialise in a particular industry, for instance food processing, motor vehicles or pharmaceuticals.
You could also start as an engineering technician or quality control officer in a manufacturing company. You could then become a team leader and shift supervisor before moving into production management through training and promotion.
Production manager duties
Production manager duties are diverse and depend on the employer and specialty, but some responsibilities are common to most:
- Monitor the production processes and adjust schedules as needed
- Collate and analyse data, putting together production reports for both factory managers and customers
- Estimate, negotiate and agree budgets and timescales with clients and managers
- Supervise and manage the work of junior staff
- Ensure that health and safety protocols are adhered to
- Ensure output meets quality standards
- Liaise with other managers to formulate objectives and understand requirements
- Provide regular status reports and capacity plan updates with the team and with studio management
- Organise the repair of any damaged equipment
Production manager skills
To be an effective production manager, you’ll need certain skills and competencies. The following are often cited in job vacancies:
- Capacity to grasp complex concepts easily
- Ability to work in a logical, systematic manner
- Project management skills
- Problem solving skills
- Excellent organizational and leaderships skills
- Strong decision-making skills and a results-driven approach
How to find a production manager job
These jobs are advertised online, in local newspapers and at your local jobcentre. To find all the production manager jobs near you, you need to:
- Search for production manager jobs on popular job websites such as; Indeed, Total Jobs and CV Library
- Use the DWP’s Find A Job Service
- Check local newspapers and local Facebook groups, especially groups dedicated to local jobs
Production Manager Job Titles
When you search for production manager jobs online, be aware that the jobs might be advertised using a different job title. Popular job titles for production manager jobs include;
- Production Supervisor
- Manufacturing Manager
What does a production manager do?
The job of a production manager varies depending on the job role and the company you’re working for. Check the duties and responsibilities of production manager job advertisements to find jobs that best suit your skills and experience.
The day-to-day tasks of a production manager include;
- Draw up production plans and set quality standards
- Monitor production schedules and adjust them if problems occur
- Manage the production team
- Work with suppliers to get parts and raw materials
- Make sure performance targets are met and waste is kept to a minimum
- Oversee the training and development of staff
- Write reports for senior managers and customers