JOB SUMMARY:

As the Production Manager at DAW Signs, you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the production facility, overseeing both signage and joinery teams. You will coordinate workloads, ensure efficient production workflows, and maintain high standards of quality, health and safety, and output. Your role will involve planning and organising production schedules, managing resources, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within specification. You will also be responsible for supervising factory staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment, and driving continuous improvement in processes and performance. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and a hands-on approach will be key to your success in this role.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience in a production or workshop management role, ideally within the signage, joinery, or manufacturing industries.
• Strong understanding of production processes, materials, and machinery relevant to signage and joinery operations.
• Experience with stock control, quality assurance, and health & safety regulations in a factory environment.
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage teams and prioritise workload effectively.
• Familiarity with interpreting technical drawings and specifications.
• Competence in using production planning tools or software (e.g. Excel, ERP systems).
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• A hands-on, practical approach with a problem-solving mindset and a focus on continuous improvement.

• Oversee stock control by conducting and recording accurate monthly stock takes; investigate discrepancies and communicate low stock levels.
• Monitor wastage, maintain a detailed wastage record, and implement strategies to reduce material waste across production.
• Ensure quality control by inspecting work throughout production, addressing defects, and upholding high standards across signage and joinery outputs.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of both the signage and joinery workshops, ensuring smooth communication and workflow between teams.
• Oversee job efficiency and workflow, ensuring jobs move through production in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Monitor labour hours per job, ensuring tasks are completed within allocated timeframes and investigating overruns to improve planning.
• Collate jobs ready for dispatch, ensuring all components are complete, properly packaged, and prepared for timely delivery.
• Coordinate with the Senior Sales Administrator to forecast and programme future workload, aligning production schedules with project demands.
• Maintain machinery through planned maintenance, using a weekly and monthly planner to ensure all equipment is kept clean, safe, and operational.
• Oversee health and safety across the factory, including PPE checks, First aid supply checks, accident reporting, and regular toolbox talks.
• Deliver machine safety inductions to ensure all operatives are trained and compliant before using machinery.
• Conduct full factory inductions for new team members once onboarding paperwork is complete, covering layout, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Work closely with design, sales, and project management teams to align production efforts with client expectations and project timelines.
• Identify training needs and support ongoing development of production staff to ensure high skill levels, safety awareness, and job satisfaction.
• Track and review team and individual performance, providing regular feedback and conducting performance reviews to promote accountability and motivation.
• Ensure the workshop remains compliant with internal policies and external regulations (e.g. fire safety, manual handling), and assist during audits or inspections.