Purdey Director of Manufacturing
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Join Purdey in London as the Director of Manufacturing. Lead a team in a heritage-rich environment, driving innovation and operational excellence. Part of the Richemont Group.
Overview
Purdey, a distinguished name in the luxury firearms industry, is renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. As part of the Richemont Group, Purdey benefits from the extensive resources and global reach of a leading luxury goods conglomerate. The brand prides itself on its heritage and dedication to producing bespoke products of the highest quality.
Role & Responsibilities
- Lead the production team of skilled craftspeople to deliver world-class bespoke firearms on time and to exacting standards.
- Oversee the machine shop to ensure efficient and accurate parts delivery to support production flow.
- Guide the technology department to foster innovation in parts and product development while respecting traditional craftsmanship.
- Champion a safe, clean, and compliant working environment across all areas.
- Implement new technologies, planning tools, and processes to enhance performance and drive operational transformation.
- Maintain the balance between traditional handcraft and modern manufacturing capabilities.
- Manage manufacturing financials, including operational expenditure, stock, margin management, and absorption costing.
- Collaborate with the gun sales team to align production with customer demand and lead times.
- Work with leadership and other departments to ensure operational alignment with business goals.
- Prepare and present updates to the Executive Committee as required.
- Lead and develop a team of approximately 40, with 4 direct reports, fostering a culture of pride, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Experience leading manufacturing operations in a small, quality-led environment with a heritage or craftsmanship component.
- Proven track record in leading transformation with an understanding of technical and cultural change.
- Strong leadership skills with a commitment to developing and supporting people.
- Deep understanding of production planning, financials, OPEX, and stock management.
- Skilled in implementing planning and scheduling tools in a hands-on setting.
- Ability to communicate effectively at all levels and present confidently to senior leadership.
- Comfortable working cross-functionally, particularly with commercial teams.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
Skills
Experience
Proven experience in leading manufacturing operations, ideally within a heritage or craftsmanship-focused environment, with a track record of successful transformation initiatives.
Workplace
This position is based in London, England, UK, within easy reach of London. Cerulean lists 435 open roles in London, including 16 posted recently. The broader England area accounts for 544 active listings on Cerulean, 19 of which are new. In UK as a whole, Cerulean currently features 572 open positions, with 22 posted this week.
Benefits
Purdey offers a supportive environment that values diversity, empathy, curiosity, and integrity. Employees benefit from a culture that fosters untapped potential and encourages professional growth.
Culture
Purdey, as part of the Richemont Group, values diversity and the unique contributions of its team members. The company fosters a culture of empathy, curiosity, courage, humility, and integrity, with a strong commitment to sustainability and community care.
About Cerulean
Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.