Operations & Production Manager – Design-Led Lighting Studio

About the Role

We’re recruiting on behalf of a growing, design-led studio crafting unique lighting products at the intersection of architecture, fabrication, and art. As the Operations & Production Manager, you'll lead the end-to-end workshop operations—from hands-on assembly and production planning to systemising workflows, managing the team, and supporting scale, as well as

This role is ideal for someone technically minded with strong production or mechanical know-how, who’s looking to step up and take ownership of systems, processes, and team leadership. You'll be the operational right hand to the Head of Design and work closely with a tight-knit team of makers and designers.

If you're someone who understands how things go together, thrives in a hands-on environment, and enjoys implementing simple, effective systems—this could be your perfect next role.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the studio’s day-to-day production and assembly operations

Own the build process from materials prep through to finished product delivery

Schedule and plan production to meet delivery deadlines and ensure quality

Troubleshoot production bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement across workflow

Champion lean principles—eliminating waste, improving flow, and building scalable systems

Build and document SOPs and workshop processes to support team efficiency

Implement a simple, cost-effective inventory and supply system (600–1000 SKUs) using tools like Airtable, Notion, or Google Sheets

Manage vendor relationships and ensure supplier performance meets delivery and quality standards (DIFOTTS)

Oversee procurement and stock management to ensure materials are available ahead of production

Lead and develop a small production/admin team, fostering a collaborative and accountable culture

Support product development and work closely with design leads to translate ideas into production

What You Bring

A background in production, assembly, mechanical trades, or fabrication

Hands-on experience managing small teams or leading a workshop environment

Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to improving processes

Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or 5S (even informally)

Confident using or learning basic digital tools for scheduling, inventory, or project tracking

A “builder” mindset—you're excited to implement systems and make things run better

Bonus: an appreciation for design, architecture, or creative manufacturing

You

Detail-oriented, hands-on, and comfortable working across both the big picture and small details

Someone who takes pride in delivering high-quality work and keeping things moving

Collaborative, calm under pressure, and capable of setting the tone on the workshop floor

Why You’ll Love This Role

A unique chance to work in a design-first business creating high-end lighting pieces

Autonomy to shape and lead production processes, workshop and supply chain operation.

Studio based in Sunshine, with an engaged and friendly team

A values-led company culture that celebrates creativity, quality, and continuous improvement

We’re interviewing now. If you're excited by the idea of bringing structure to creativity and leading a team that makes beautiful things—apply via SEEK or reach out confidentially for more info.