We are a defence technology start-up building a sovereign UK capability that didn't exist 18 months ago. In a short space of time, we've gone from concept to operational impact, scaling a manufacturing capability from the ground up. We're moving fast and operating in a corner of the defence market where appetite, both from customers and investors is only growing. There's a lot still to build, and that's exactly the point. If you want to own something rather than manage it, this is that opportunity.
Herefordshire (Full-time onsite)-Relocationassistanceprovided
We design and manufacture state-of-the‑art UAVs for defence applications. Our products are focused on autonomy and the implementation of cutting‑edge technologies vital to the UK’s sovereign defence capability. Our systems are designed and built in‑house from scratch. We’ve built high‑impact platforms that fit squarely into a new era of warfare the world is still catching up with. We're not making components for someone else's vision. This is ours, end to end.
Responsibilities
- Own the weekly build plan, keeping production aligned with operational demand
- Manage and develop a multi‑disciplinary team across Assembly, Quality, and Training
- Lead daily stand‑ups to align supervisors and teams on priorities
- Drive continuous improvement in efficiency, material flow, and process performance
- Ensure all products are approved and shipment‑ready to the required standard
- Collaborate with Engineering on design changes and release readiness
- Liaise with Engineering to keep build instructions current and distributed on time
- Track and report production performance data to senior leadership
- Resolve cross‑functional bottlenecks with Operations, Procurement, and Quality
Minimum Qualifications
- Proven experience in a production or manufacturing management role
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop multi‑disciplinary teams
- Experience managing build schedules and resourcing plans in a dynamic environment
- Strong working knowledge of quality management principles and SOPs
- Eligibility to obtain UK security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
- Background in high‑precision manufacturing (aerospace, defence, or similar)
- Familiarity with drone or UAV manufacturing processes
- Experience working directly with engineering on product changes and release readiness
- Experience in general assembly (GA), ideally having set up or scaled a production line in a GA environment
- Exposure to continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent)
- Degree or HNC/HND in engineering, manufacturing, or a related discipline
Benefits
- £60,000 to £70,000 base salary depending on experience
- Relocation assistance provided
- 6% employer contribution pension (gross salary)
- Private health insurance
- 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Enhanced parental leave
- EV salary sacrifice scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
Building something this ambitious takes a broad mix of people. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
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