Join to apply for the Director of Manufacturing role at James Purdey & Sons - Richemont Group

Join to apply for the Director of Manufacturing role at James Purdey & Sons - Richemont Group

HOW WILL YOU MAKE AN IMPACT?

We are seeking an experienced and empathetic Director of Manufacturing to lead the end-to-end production of our bespoke guns. This role sits at the heart of our heritage business, where craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand. You will be responsible for delivering products on time and to the highest standard, while leading the business through a period of meaningful operational transformation.

HOW WILL YOU MAKE AN IMPACT?

We are seeking an experienced and empathetic Director of Manufacturing to lead the end-to-end production of our bespoke guns. This role sits at the heart of our heritage business, where craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand. You will be responsible for delivering products on time and to the highest standard, while leading the business through a period of meaningful operational transformation.

This is a unique opportunity for a values-driven manufacturing leader who understands the importance of honouring tradition while driving change. You will oversee production, machining, and technology functions, and play a key role in implementing new processes, planning tools, and systems that will improve efficiency and support long-term sustainability.

Manufacturing Leadership

• Lead the Production Team of highly skilled craftspeople to deliver world-class products on time and to exacting standards.
• Oversee the Machine Shop to ensure parts are delivered accurately and efficiently to support production flow.
• Guide the Technology Department, ensuring ongoing innovation in parts and product development while respecting the craftsmanship ethos.
• Champion a safe, clean, and compliant working environment across all areas.
  
  

• Lead the factory through a period of change, implementing new technologies, planning tools, and processes to enhance performance.
• Maintain the delicate balance between traditional handcraft and modern manufacturing capability.
• Identify and introduce appropriate systems to support planning, scheduling, and resource management.
  
  

• Take ownership of manufacturing financials including operational expenditure, stock, margin management, and absorption costing.
• Contribute to strategic discussions around pricing, profitability, and investment.
  
  

• Work closely with the Gun Sales Team to ensure production aligns with customer demand and lead times.
• Collaborate with leadership and other departments to ensure operational alignment with overall business goals.
• Prepare and present updates to the Executive Committee (ExCo) as required.
  
  

• Lead with empathy—listen, encourage, and motivate a team that is passionate about their craft.
• Invest in the development of talent, creating opportunities for learning and skill progression.
• Build a culture of pride, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead a team of c.40 with 4 direct reports
  
  

• Experience leading manufacturing operations in a small, quality-led environment, ideally with a heritage or craftsmanship component.
• Proven track record in leading transformation, with an understanding of both technical and cultural change.
• Strong leadership skills with a genuine commitment to developing and supporting people.
• Deep understanding of production planning, financials (including absorption costing), OPEX, and stock management.
• Skilled in implementing planning and scheduling tools in a hands-on setting.
• Able to communicate effectively at all levels and present confidently to senior leadership / ExCo.
• Comfortable working cross-functionally, especially with commercial teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with health & safety practices and compliance standards.
• Detail-oriented, organised, and calm under pressure.
• Conscientious with strong interpersonal and team-building skills.
  
  

• We value freedom, collegiality, loyalty, and solidarity
• We foster empathy, curiosity, courage, humility, and integrity
• We care for the world we live in
  
  

• Initial screening call with Richemont Talent Team
• Interview with the Hiring Manager
• Interview with the Head of HR
  
  

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Production, Manufacturing, and Engineering

• Industries

  Retail Luxury Goods and Jewelry

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