Manufacturing Engineering Director (Defence Sector | Machining & Assembly)

About

Lead advanced manufacturing in a high-performance, defence-aligned environment.

We are seeking a seasoned Manufacturing Engineering leader to drive engineering excellence within a globally competitive, defence-oriented manufacturing operation. This role offers the opportunity to work on high-spec, precision-engineered products where quality, reliability, and compliance are non-negotiable.

If you thrive in environments that demand technical rigor, operational discipline, and continuous innovation, this role is for you.

Your Impact

You will lead the Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, and Tooling functions, ensuring:

• Precision-driven, compliant manufacturing systems
• Reliable, efficient machining and assembly operations
• Engineering alignment with stringent defence and international standards
• Continuous improvement in cost, quality, and throughput

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Manufacturing Engineering Excellence

• Lead and optimise machining and assembly processes in a high-spec environment
• Ensure accuracy of BOMs, routings, and ERP (SAP) master data
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Support industrialisation of complex products with strict quality requirements
• Collaborate with local and international customers, including defence-related stakeholders

Maintenance & Tooling Leadership

• Drive TPM and preventative maintenance strategies to ensure maximum uptime
• Improve tooling reliability and availability for precision manufacturing
• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and machinery standards (GCC advantageous)

Strategic Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing technical teams
• Drive CAPEX investment programmes aligned to capacity and efficiency
• Embed a culture of accountability, compliance, and continuous improvement
• Align engineering strategy with business growth in a regulated, high-performance sector

What You Bring

• BEng / BTech Mechanical Engineering
• 10–15 years’ experience in manufacturing engineering (machining/assembly essential)
• 5+ years in senior leadership (Head/Director level)
• Experience in highly regulated industries (Defence, Aerospace, Automotive, Heavy Engineering advantageous)
• Strong exposure to:
  • Lean / continuous improvement
  • ERP systems (SAP preferred)
  • Process optimisation and industrialisation
• Exposure to AS9100 / ISO 9001 / defence quality standards advantageous
• GCC (advantageous)

What Sets You Apart

• Experience working in or supplying into the defence or similarly regulated sectors
• Strong understanding of quality, traceability, and compliance requirements
• Ability to balance technical depth with strategic leadership
• Proven track record of improving cost, quality, and operational performance

Why Join Us?

• Work in a defence-aligned, high-spec manufacturing environment
• Be part of a business delivering mission-critical engineered products
• Shape engineering strategy in a complex, globally connected operation
• Competitive executive package

If you're ready to lead in a precision-driven, high-impact environment, apply now.

For more information please contact:

Placement Partner - NS