MERITUS are recruiting for an established Director of Production from the UK Defence and Aerospace industry to join our client who are rapidly expanding their manufacturing capabailities. The role will be working from either their Bath or Bristol HQ, until the opening of the new site in Swindon later in 2026.

DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION - £100,000 / £120,000 PER ANNUM - SOUTH WEST - MUST BE FROM AN AEROSPACE OR DEFENC BACKGROUND - UNDERGO CLEARANCE - RAPIDLY EXPANDING BUSINESS

Our client is a leading innovator working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science and aerospace technology, delivering mission-critical solutions that protect people, safeguard global infrastructure, and support space exploration.

With a pioneering surveillance-as-a-service offering, they provide real-time intelligence that enhances maritime safety, environmental protection, and operational decision-making across the most challenging environments — at sea, on land, in space, and within cyberspace.

This is a unique opportunity to join a fast-growing, multidisciplinary organisation that is reshaping global safety standards and redefining the future of maritime surveillance.

The Opportunity

As Head of UK Production, you will play a pivotal role in establishing and scaling the organisation’s UK manufacturing capability. This is not a traditional defence manufacturing position. We are seeking an entrepreneurial leader with both technical depth and strategic vision, capable of building and developing a high-performance production function from the ground up.

You will be responsible for shaping production strategy, establishing facilities and processes, and driving the transition from rapid prototyping to full-scale production of world-class unmanned systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and growth of the UK production and manufacturing function, including team development, process design and facility setup.

• Implement scalable, flexible manufacturing systems to support rapid iteration, prototyping, and small-to-medium batch production.

• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence across engineering and production teams.

• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to accelerate development cycles while maintaining outstanding product quality.

• Introduce modern digital and advanced manufacturing methods, including additive manufacturing, digital twins, and data-driven production control.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality frameworks, including AS9100 / ISO9001.

• Manage supplier relationships and develop a resilient, responsive supply chain with strong UK content.

• Champion lean methodologies, Kaizen principles, and sustainability across materials, energy and process management.

Candidate Profile

• Proven leadership experience within Aerospace, Defence, or advanced technology manufacturing environments.

• Strong knowledge of modern production techniques, lean manufacturing principles, and digital manufacturing technologies.

• Demonstrable experience establishing and scaling production teams, facilities, and systems.

• Track record of delivering complex engineered products to stringent performance and quality standards.

• Solid understanding of quality and regulatory frameworks (AS9100 / ISO9001).

• Strategic mindset with a collaborative, hands-on leadership style.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence, coach and build high-performing teams.