Production & Logistics Manager (Maternity Cover)

We are seeking an experienced Production & Logistics Manager to join a growing childrenswear accessory business on a maternity cover contract. This is a hands-on role managing the end-to-end production, supply chain and logistics process, working closely with overseas factories, logistics partners and internal teams to ensure products are delivered on time, to specification and in full compliance with relevant regulations.
The business operates across both wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels, supplying a wide range of retail customers from independent stores to major department stores, as well as online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms.
Main Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with manufacturing partners in China and oversee the production process from order placement through to shipment.
• Issue and manage production orders, ensuring all product specifications, coding, labelling requirements, testing requirements and packaging instructions are accurately communicated.
• Monitor production schedules and proactively manage timelines to ensure on-time delivery.
• Liaise with suppliers to resolve production, quality and delivery issues.
• Responsible for managing online products - uploading data and ensuring on sale in correct channels at correct time
• Manage international shipping and freight operations, including import and export documentation.
• Coordinate deliveries into distribution centres and work closely with logistics and warehouse partners.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations, tariffs, duties and shipping requirements.
• Oversee the Production & Quality Coordinator and support the management of:
  • Risk assessments
  • Product testing and test reports
  • Product safety requirements
  • GPSR compliance
  • Chemical compliance
  • Production sample approvals
  • Quality control inspections and AQL checks
  • Digital product creation and maintenance
• Manage and maintain inventory, production and order management systems.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to ensure stock availability and smooth supply chain operations.

Person Specification

• Previous experience in a Production Manager, Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Manager or similar role.
• Proven experience working directly with factories and suppliers in China.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping, freight forwarding, customs procedures, tariffs and duties.
• Excellent IT skills with experience using inventory management, ERP, supply chain or order management systems.
• Experience working within a product-based business, preferably a brand rather than a supplier or sourcing agent.
• Understanding of product compliance, testing, quality assurance and regulatory requirements.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Able to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• Highly reliable, detail-oriented and self-motivated.
• Positive attitude with a hands-on, can-do approach.

Experience of platforms such as Shopify, OrderSpace, Faire, Unleashed or similar systems would be advantageous but is not essential.