To ensure efficiency, a production manager typically supervises workers in a factory or manufacturing plant. He or she determines the quantity of certain items to be produced, inspects the finished goods for quality, and schedules regular machine maintenance. Furthermore, the production manager is frequently involved in arranging shipping with distribution centers and retail stores. To ensure that manufacturing processes run smoothly and workers are kept safe at all times, managers typically need strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Production managers usually work on-site in factories to keep an eye on things and give workers instructions. Managers use information from executives and other supervisors to set production schedules based on market demand and budgets. They ensure that daily quotas are met keeping workers focused and informed about changes in procedures. Managers can determine the best ways to get production back on track if it falls behind for any reason.
Many managers are also in charge of recruiting and training new employees. They hold regular performance reviews and meet with employees one-on-one to help them identify ways to improve their methods. The production manager is usually the first point of contact for workers with suggestions or concerns.
Quality control policies are usually an important part of a production manager’s job. The manager creates detailed product quality checklists and oversees the construction of items. In many small factories, each item is thoroughly examined before being packaged and shipped. In large manufacturing plants, a random sample of products from the assembly line is chosen for careful inspection and testing to ensure that they are defect-free. Personal inspections may be performed the production manager, or he or she may supervise a group of quality-control workers.
To avoid potential production halts, routine preventive maintenance on manufacturing equipment is critical. The manager is in charge of scheduling maintenance work and conducting regular equipment inspections to ensure that machines are clean, safe, and efficient. He or she determines the need for new machinery and, if necessary, orders replacement parts.
The majority of production managers have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or industrial management or higher. They typically start as factory floor workers or assistant managers and work their way up to supervisory positions after gaining experience and demonstrating strong leadership abilities. Many professionals who excel in production management positions eventually advance to head manager or executive roles in their companies with continued education in business administration.