Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Jewelry Production Manager

🎯 Role Definition

The Jewelry Production Manager is the operational heart of a jewelry brand, orchestrating the complex process of transforming creative designs into tangible, high-quality pieces. This role serves as the critical link between the design studio, the workshop, and the marketplace. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire production lifecycle, from raw material procurement and vendor management to workshop scheduling, quality assurance, and budget control. A successful Jewelry Production Manager combines a deep appreciation for the art of jewelry making with a strategic mindset for process optimization, team leadership, and supply chain excellence, ensuring that every piece is delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest standards of craftsmanship.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Senior Bench Jeweler / Master Jeweler
Production Coordinator / Planner
Product Development Specialist (Jewelry)

Advancement To:

Director of Production / Manufacturing
Director of Operations
Head of Supply Chain

Lateral Moves:

Quality Assurance Manager
Product Development Manager
Supply Chain & Logistics Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Oversee and direct all stages of the jewelry production process, from initial CAD rendering and wax model creation to casting, stone setting, polishing, and final assembly.
Develop, implement, and meticulously manage the end-to-end production schedule, ensuring all timelines from raw material sourcing to final product delivery are met and optimized.
Manage and forecast inventory levels for raw materials, including precious metals, gemstones, and other components, to prevent shortages and minimize carrying costs.
Establish, maintain, and enforce rigorous quality control standards and inspection protocols at every stage of production to ensure finished products meet brand specifications and excellence.
Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with a network of external vendors, casters, setters, and other specialized artisans, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
Lead, mentor, and manage the in-house production team, including bench jewelers, polishers, and quality control staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, skill development, and accountability.
Develop and manage the production department's budget, actively tracking expenditures, analyzing variances, and identifying opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality.
Collaborate closely with the Design and Product Development teams to assess the manufacturability of new designs, providing critical feedback on materials, construction, and cost implications.
Implement and manage production tracking systems (often ERP or MRP software) to monitor workflow, track job progress, and generate detailed reports on production metrics and KPIs.
Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement, subsequently developing and implementing strategies for process optimization (Lean manufacturing, etc.).
Ensure the workshop and all production facilities adhere to strict health and safety regulations, promoting a safe and secure working environment for all team members.
Coordinate the logistics of moving materials, semi-finished goods, and finished products between in-house departments and external partners securely and efficiently.
Resolve any production-related issues, delays, or quality discrepancies promptly and effectively, communicating updates to all relevant stakeholders.
Prepare and present regular, comprehensive reports on production status, output, quality metrics, and budget performance to senior management.
Stay abreast of new manufacturing technologies, techniques, and materials within the jewelry industry to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
Manage the repair and rework process for any returned or damaged items, ensuring a timely and high-quality resolution for customer service.
Create and maintain detailed technical specification sheets and production guidelines for each jewelry piece to ensure consistency and repeatability.
Plan and allocate resources, including labor, equipment, and materials, to effectively meet production targets and handle fluctuating demand.
Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and repair of all production machinery and equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
Work with the sales and merchandising teams to align production capacity and lead times with sales forecasts, new product launches, and seasonal demand.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc reporting requests from leadership on specific production metrics, material yields, and artisan performance.
Contribute to the development of the company's broader operational strategy and continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with Design, Sales, and Merchandising teams to translate new product concepts and sales forecasts into actionable production plans and resource requirements.
Participate in strategic planning sessions and cross-functional team meetings, representing the capabilities and constraints of the production department.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Deep Knowledge of Jewelry Manufacturing: Comprehensive understanding of casting, soldering, laser welding, stone setting (prong, bezel, pavé), finishing, and plating.
Gemology Expertise: Strong knowledge of gemstone identification, quality grading (4Cs), and handling requirements for various stones.
Precious Metal Knowledge: Expertise in the properties and working characteristics of gold, platinum, silver, and other alloys.
ERP/MRP Software Proficiency: Experience using enterprise resource planning or manufacturing resource planning systems to manage inventory, scheduling, and workflow.
CAD/CAM Familiarity: Understanding of the CAD design-to-manufacturing process, including 3D printing and milling for model making.
Quality Control Methodologies: Skill in developing and implementing quality inspection criteria, using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers), and performing root cause analysis.
Production Planning & Scheduling: Proven ability to create and manage complex production schedules using tools like Gantt charts or specialized software.
Budgeting and Cost Analysis: Competency in creating and managing departmental budgets, tracking costs, and calculating cost of goods sold (COGS).
Vendor & Supply Chain Management: Skill in sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing ongoing vendor relationships.
Workplace Health & Safety (OSHA): Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations specific to a manufacturing and workshop environment.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Leadership & Team Mentorship: Ability to inspire, manage, and develop a diverse team of artisans and technicians.
Meticulous Attention to Detail: An unwavering eye for precision, quality, and the subtle nuances of fine jewelry craftsmanship.
Strong Problem-Solving Abilities: Capacity to quickly identify issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective, lasting solutions under pressure.
Excellent Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with artisans, designers, vendors, and senior leadership.
Negotiation & Influence: The skill to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers and influence cross-functional partners to achieve production goals.
Process-Oriented & Strategic Thinking: A mindset focused on continuous improvement, efficiency, and long-term operational planning.
Adaptability & Flexibility: The ability to pivot and adjust plans in response to changing priorities, supply chain disruptions, or urgent orders.
Time Management & Organization: Superior ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet firm deadlines.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by significant hands-on experience in jewelry production.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field or a formal certification from a recognized gemological or jewelry arts institute (e.g., GIA Graduate Gemologist, Jeweler).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Business Administration / Operations Management
Fine Arts / Jewelry Design & Metalsmithing
Gemology
Supply Chain Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

5-10 years of progressive experience within the jewelry industry, with at least 3-5 years in a management or supervisory role overseeing production processes.

Preferred:

Direct experience managing production for a fine jewelry brand, including both in-house workshop management and coordination with external manufacturing partners. A background as a bench jeweler or master artisan prior to moving into management is highly valued as it provides foundational credibility and a deep understanding of the craft.