Stephen Dale
Production Manager Development Manager @JA Upholstery Ltd
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WORK HISTORY
Production Manager Development Manager @JA Upholstery Ltd
Leeds, GB
Production & Development Manager at JA Upholstery Ltd, working across frame making, upholstery cutting, and full manufacture to ensure products are both commercially viable and production-ready. Collaborated closely with suppliers to source materials, refine specifications, and maintain quality and cost control.Led the development of new products and the refinement of existing ranges, supporting projects within the contract and commercial sector, including workspace, hospitality, care, and challenging behaviour environments.Undertook customer-facing and on-site service work when required, maintaining strong client relationships and resolving technical challenges in live environments. Contributed to the introduction of sustainability initiatives and Lean Manufacturing principles, helping improve efficiency, consistency, and overall production performance.
EDUCATION
The Open University Business School
Diploma, Business Administration and Management, General
ABOUT STEPHEN DALE
Furniture industry professional with 25+ years’ experience spanning upholstery manufacturing, product development, production management, and commercial evaluation. I combine hands-on craftsmanship with strong technical and commercial insight to help create better products, resolve complex issues, and improve performance.I began my career as an upholsterer, gaining extensive practical knowledge of furniture construction — from pattern making and cutting to frame building, prototyping, and full-scale production. This foundation has given me a detailed understanding of how furniture is designed, engineered, manufactured, and performs over time.Throughout my career I have worked across both development and manufacturing environments, contributing to product innovation while improving quality, efficiency, and production processes. My experience allows me to bridge the gap between design, development, and manufacturing, ensuring products are not only well designed but also practical, scalable, and cost-effective to produce.More recently I have been moving toward more commercially focused and customer-facing aspects of the industry. This includes assessing furniture construction and performance, identifying faults and wear, advising on repair or replacement solutions, and providing clear, practical recommendations. My manufacturing experience enables me to accurately diagnose issues, understand how and why they occur, and identify solutions that balance quality, longevity, and cost.I have also contributed to sustainability initiatives focused on improving product durability, repairability, reducing waste, and supporting circular design principles — areas that are becoming increasingly important across the furniture industry.I hold a Level 3 NVQ in Furniture Production, City & Guilds upholstery qualifications, and a Certificate of Higher Education in Management.I’m always interested in connecting with professionals across the furniture and interiors sector, particularly in product development, manufacturing, quality, sustainability, and commercial solutions.
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