Production And Quality Manager

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description

About Us

Henri-Lloyd is more than just an iconic British brand with over 60 years of pioneering spirit—it’s a business redefining itself for the future. Since joining the Monte Rosa Sport Group in 2022, we’ve embraced the agility of a startup while building on a rich legacy of innovation in technical sailing and lifestyle apparel.

As we scale globally, we remain committed to pushing boundaries in product performance, quality, and sustainability. This is a chance to be part of a tight-knit, fast-moving team where every detail matters and every contribution counts. If you're passionate about high standards, hands-on problem-solving, and making an impact where it really shows, we’d love to have you on the journey.

The Role: Production & Quality Manager

We are seeking a highly detail-oriented Production & Quality Manager with a proven track record in technical apparel production and quality assurance. You will be responsible for ensuring that all products meet Henri-Lloyd’s rigorous quality standards (AQL 1.5) while staying aligned with production timelines and critical paths.

This is a pivotal role that requires close collaboration with internal design and development teams as well as global supply chain and manufacturing partners. You will oversee the quality and integrity of our products from prototype to bulk production, taking a hands-on approach to get the job done and ensure product is available to ship on time.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management:

• Oversee the full production cycle from proto sampling to bulk delivery.
• Maintain and enforce production critical path schedules to ensure timely deliveries.
• Liaise daily with suppliers, factories, and logistics teams to resolve issues and prevent delays.
• Monitor material readiness, capacity booking, and factory compliance.
• Take a proactive, hands-on role in resolving production issues and ensuring products are ready for timely shipment.

Quality Assurance & Control:

• Ensure all finished goods meet AQL 1.5 quality standards and brand expectations.
• Implement and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for quality control at each stage of the production process.
• Conduct or oversee inline and final inspections at manufacturing sites.
• Work with factories to address non-conformance issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.

Supplier & Factory Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with offshore factories and suppliers.
• Conduct regular quality audits and compliance assessments.
• Ensure all factories meet ethical, environmental, and technical compliance requirements.

Technical & Product Expertise:

• Translate technical packs and ensure accurate interpretation at the factory level.
• Ensure that performance fabrics and trims meet technical specs for functionality and durability.
• Provide guidance on construction, fit, and performance standards during development and production.
• Possess a deep understanding of product construction and patterns to ensure the technical integrity of every style.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with the Design, Product Development, Buying & Merchandising, and Operations teams.
• Provide quality and production feedback during design and sampling stages.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across product and process quality.

What You Bring

• Proven experience in quality control and production management, ideally in technical or performance clothing.
• Deep understanding of AQL 1.5 standards, inspection protocols, and garment testing.
• Strong knowledge of garment construction, performance textiles, pattern-making, and production timelines.
• Hands-on experience working with offshore manufacturing partners (preferably in Asia or Europe).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work under pressure.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and negotiation skills.
• Willingness to travel internationally to visit suppliers and factories.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• On-Time Deliveries: Products are consistently delivered on schedule, aligned with the production critical path, ensuring seasonal launches and sales timelines are met.
• AQL 1.5 Quality Standards Met or Exceeded: Garments meet (or exceed) established AQL 1.5 standards across all factories, with minimal returns or quality complaints from customers.
• Strong Supplier Partnerships: A reliable network of factories and suppliers is developed and maintained, with regular audits, clear communication, and proactive problem resolution.
• Hands-On Issue Resolution: Production issues are swiftly identified and resolved at the source—whether on the factory floor or in transit—through a proactive, hands-on approach.
• Seamless Cross-Functional Collaboration: The production team works in sync with Design, Development, and Operations, with smooth transitions from sample to bulk, and full visibility across the supply chain.
• Process Improvements Implemented: Existing processes are continuously optimised—whether through improved QA protocols, better factory planning, or smarter materials management—to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance product integrity.
• Technical Excellence Embedded: A deep understanding of garment construction and pattern-making informs decisions at every stage, ensuring technically accurate, high-performing product that meets the Henri-Lloyd brand promise.

What We Offer

• A chance to shape the future of a globally recognised performance brand.
• A collaborative environment that values craftsmanship and innovation.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• International travel opportunities.
• Career progression within a fast-growing business.