Production Coordinator (Maternity Cover)

Overview:\n\nWe are seeking a proactive and highly organised Production Coordinator to cover a period of maternity leave. This role is critical in ensuring that all metal-finished components flow efficiently through our supply chain, supporting production schedules and maintaining strong relationships with metal finishing partners.\n\nThe successful candidate will be adaptable, decisive, and comfortable juggling multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.\n\nKey Responsibilities:\n\nMetal Finishing Coordination\n\nAssess all parts awaiting metal finishing, considering:\n\n * Distance to metal finishing suppliers\n\n * Lead times and capacity of each finishing type\n\n * Production priorities and urgent requests\n\n * Ensure correct job allocation to appropriate finishers to meet operational deadlines\n\nLogistics & Scheduling\n\n * Arrange collections and deliveries with local couriers.\n\n * Plan and coordinate jobs with the in‑house driver, ensuring efficient routing and timely drop‑offs/collections.\n\n * Track all outgoing and incoming metal finishing jobs to maintain visibility of progress.\n\nSupplier & Relationship Management\n\n * Build and maintain strong working relationships with metal finishing companies.\n\n * Confirm accurate, up-to-date lead times\n\n * Address delays or issues promptly, escalating internally when needed.\n\nCommunication & Coordination\n\nProvide clear, timely updates to line managers and production teams regarding:\n\n * Work-in-progress at metal finishers\n\n * Expected delivery dates\n\n * Any disruptions or urgent requirements\n\n * Collaborate closely with manufacturing, planning, and quality teams to ensure smooth workflow\n\nAdministrative Duties\n\n * Generate purchase orders and drawing packs for relevant suppliers\n\n * Maintain accurate records of parts sent for finishing.\n\n * Update internal systems with job statuses.\n\nKey Skills & Abilities:\n\nEssential\n\n * Strong organisational and multitasking skills.\n\n * Ability to react quickly to urgent requests and changing priorities.\n\n * Good understanding of logistics coordination.\n\n * Confident communicator, both internally and externally.\n\n * Proven experience in a fast-paced operational or manufacturing environment.\n\n * Ability to build rapport with suppliers and manage expectations professionally.\n\n * Computer literate\n\nDesirable\n\n * Experience within a metal finishing, fabrication, or engineering environment.\n\n * Knowledge of plating, anodising, powder coating, or similar processes.\n\n * Familiarity with ERP or production scheduling systems.\n\n * Full UK driving licence.\n\nPersonal Attributes\n\n * Calm under pressure and solutions‑focused. Strong attention to detail.\n\n * Team player with a collaborative attitude.