Production manager (manufacturing)
Production managers make sure manufacturing processes run smoothly, are cost-effective and deliver products on time and of the right quality.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a production manager, you'll:
- draw up production plans and set quality standards
- monitor production runs and make adjustments if problems occur
- work with suppliers to get parts and raw materials
- make sure performance targets are met and waste is kept to a minimum
- work with sales teams, buyers and quality control departments
- oversee the training and development of staff
- write production reports for senior managers and customers
Working environment
You could work in an office, in a factory or in a workshop.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could move into:
- planning and operations
- risk and safety management
- supply chain and procurement
- business development and general management
If you work in a large manufacturing company, there may be career development opportunities at regional, national or international level.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- leadership skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to motivate and manage staff
- the ability to use your initiative
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- the ability to organise your time and workload
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
You could do a university qualification in manufacturing.
Some employers may look for a qualification subject related to their particular industry, for example:
- automotive or aerospace engineering
- food and drink production
- pharmaceuticals
- chemical engineering
- fashion and textiles management
Getting relevant industry experience during your studies is important. A summer internship or year in industry placement can give you an advantage when looking for work after university.
If you complete a degree, you may be able to join a manufacturing or production management graduate training scheme.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
You could apply to do an apprenticeship to get into this career. Examples include:
- Process Leader Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Project Controls Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Manufacturing Management Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
These can take between 2 and 5 years to complete and are a mix of on-the-job training and off-site study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
You might start as an engineering technician or quality control officer in a manufacturing company. You could then move into production management through training and promotion.
You could apply directly to join a management training scheme with a manufacturing company. Employers will set their own entry requirements, for example a university qualification.
You may also be able to join a scheme if you can show you have substantial relevant industry experience.
Career tips
A knowledge of production methods and international quality standards, like ISO9000, will be helpful.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.