Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing

We have an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Head of Manufacturing to join one of the UK's leading manufacturers, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and engineering excellence. With a strong reputation for designing and manufacturing market-leading products, the business supplies customers across a diverse range of sectors throughout the UK and internationally.

As the organisation continues to invest in its people, technology, and manufacturing capability, this pivotal leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of its manufacturing operations. As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will lead the manufacturing function, driving operational excellence, developing high-performing teams, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement to support the company's long-term strategic objectives.

Main responsibilities for the successful Head of Manufacturing:

Success in this role means delivering outstanding operational results, empowering and developing your teams, driving productivity and innovation, and creating a manufacturing environment where people feel engaged, supported, and proud to contribute.

As Head of Manufacturing, you will provide strategic leadership across the manufacturing function while maintaining a strong presence within day-to-day operations. You will lead by example, ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational performance are achieved, while driving efficiency, scalability, and continuous improvement in line with the company's strategic objectives:

* Act as a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to the wider business strategy while driving a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence across the manufacturing function.

* Provide strategic leadership for all manufacturing operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of production plans while meeting business objectives.

* Lead, inspire, and develop Production Managers, Supervisors, and Team Leaders, creating a high-performing culture built on accountability, collaboration, and continuous development.

* Champion a zero-harm health and safety culture, ensuring full compliance with legislation, company policies, and industry best practice.

* Drive operational excellence by improving productivity, efficiency, quality, and manufacturing performance through the effective use of KPIs and data-driven decision-making.

* Embed Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies to reduce waste, optimise processes, and increase operational capability.

* Ensure robust quality standards are maintained across all manufacturing activities, promoting a 'right first time' approach and leading corrective and preventive improvement initiatives.

* Develop workforce capability through effective succession planning, coaching, mentoring, and structured training programmes to build future manufacturing leaders.

* Manage manufacturing budgets and operational resources effectively, identifying opportunities to improve cost efficiency without compromising safety, quality, or customer service.

* Build strong cross-functional relationships with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Maintenance, Finance, and HR to deliver business objectives and drive operational success.

* Lead workforce planning, employee engagement, and performance management, fostering a positive working environment where people are empowered to achieve their full potential.

Main requirement for the successful Head of Manufacturing:

* Proven experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role, leading multi-disciplinary production operations.

* Demonstrable success in driving operational excellence, improving productivity, quality, and overall manufacturing performance.

* Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to inspire, develop, and mentor high-performing teams.

* Comprehensive knowledge of Health & Safety legislation, quality management systems, and regulatory compliance within a manufacturing environment.

* Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement initiatives that deliver measurable business improvements.

* Strong commercial and financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, resources, and operational performance.

* Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective cross-functional relationships.

* HNC, HND, degree, or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline (desirable).

* Experience within fabrication, sheet steel processing, assembly, or engineered products manufacturing would be advantageous.

What we offer in return to the successful Head of Manufacturing:

* Monday to Friday ( on site based)

* Competitive salary of £70,000–£80,000 per annum, depending on experience.

* Pension/ holiday entitlement / Health care plan

* Great company to work for!

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an innovative, forward-thinking organisation that values talent, fosters career progression, and empowers its team to make a real impact on the global stage. So don’t wait and get in touch for more details!

Paradigm Employment Services Ltd is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed