Biophilica
 Production Manager - Sustainable Materials Science Company

Posted on: 17 March 2022

BIOPHILICA
Company Overview

At Biophilica, we have developed a remarkably leather-like and completely plastic-free leather alternative called Treekind®. We are an agile, dynamic and rapidly growing startup that values collaboration, efficiency, problem-solving, creativity, and achieving our clearly defined goals. Our culture is optimistic, friendly, inclusive, transparent, and driven by sustainability. We won Manufacturing Futures 2021, Mills Fabrica Techstyle for Social Good 2021, a finalist in Drapers Sustainable Fashion Award 2021 and Microfibre Innovation Challenge 2022. Biophilica is part of the latest cohort of the LVMH’s Startup Accelerator. We are currently running a pilot with our previous accelerator, Fashion For Good. 

We are looking for an experienced Production Manager who is passionate about combining materials science, technology and sustainability to join Biophilica in London as we scale up and collaborate with recognisable brands. You will be an integral part of the team, working closely with the Founder & CEO to select and perform hands-on testing of continuous production equipment, implement and oversee production, and ensure health & safety. You will make sure products are produced safely, cost-effectively and on time and that they meet the required quality standards. We are seeking an organised, motivated, and solutions-oriented person, comfortable with the rhythms of a science-based startup. 

Role:

Based in London, we are looking for a Production Manager to support the next stage of growth at Biophilica. You'll be involved in the pre-production (planning) stage as well as the production (control and supervision) stage. Experience in both manufacturing engineering and materials science is highly preferred. Working with the R&D team you will choose and perform on-the-floor testing of continuous production equipment, and implement and oversee production including training staff in new manufacturing processes and health and safety. You will ensure that the production is well-coordinated and productive by managing procedures and coaching people. 

 

Responsibilities:

  • Select equipment and take responsibility for its maintenance 
  • Implement quality assurance/quality control procedures 
  • Plan and draw up a production schedule 
  • Order the raw materials that are required and ensure stock levels remain adequate 
  • Ensure that the production will be cost effective by estimating costs and agreeing budgets with other managers 
  • Monitor the production processes and adjust schedules as needed 
  • Monitor productivity rates and product standards and implement quality control programmes 
  • Organise the repair of any damaged or faulty equipment 
  • Liaise with teams and companies, e.g. suppliers, managers, vendors 
  • Ensure that health and safety guidelines are followed at all times 
  • Ensure customer orders are completed on time and to budget and that quality standards and targets are met 
  • Work with managers to implement the company's policies and goals 
  • Collate and analyse data, putting together production reports 
  • Supervise and motivate the team 
  • Review worker performance and identify training needs.
  • Evaluate and manage operational risk (staffing, process, supply chain, ordering, etc.) 
  • Oversee expenses and budgets to help the organisation optimise costs and benefits 
  • Mentor and motivate teams to achieve productivity and engagement with a focus on retention and growth 
  • Report on operational performance and suggest improvements 

Requirements:

  • Proven experience in manufacturing 
  • Experience of manufacturing of biomaterials is a significant advantage: films and coatings from cellulose or hydrocolloids  
  • Organisational and leadership abilities 
  • Communication, motivational, and people skills 
  • Knowledge of workplace and operational regulations and guidelines 
  • MSc, PhD or equivalent experience in manufacturing engineering, food science and technology, process engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science and technology, chemistry/chemical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary 
  • Equity compensation plan options available 
  • Travel budget for occasional off-site visits 
  • Work in an agile and focused environment  
  • Be part of a creative and supportive team 
  • Support the future of sustainable materials 
  • Be part of shaping the future of Biophilica  

To apply, please send a cover letter, your CV and contact information for three professional references to hello@biophilica.co.uk 

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