Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)
Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)

Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)

Full-Time 72000 - 108000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead vehicle production across multiple sites, ensuring quality and efficiency.
  • Company: Join DRVN Automotive Group, a leader in luxury automotive design and manufacturing.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 33 days holiday, pension, healthcare, and employee referral perks.
  • Why this job: Be part of innovative projects like Evoluto and iconic Ford reimaginings, driving modern automotive excellence.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing; proven experience in automotive leadership required.
  • Other info: Must have full rights to work in the UK; no sponsorships available.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.

The DRVN Automotive Group are seeking a dynamic and highly experienced Manufacturing Director to lead and coordinate end-to-end vehicle production and related operations across our key UK facilities that are based in Coventry, Newton Aycliffe, and Thruxton. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving excellence in vehicle build programmes from the ground up, ensuring manufacturing strategies align with our quality, efficiency, and delivery standards.

As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will oversee the setup of our Thruxton site as the main priority for end-to-end vehicle production, build strong cross-functional teams, and ensure the SMT teams maintain compliance with UK quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role requires frequent travel between sites to ensure cohesive, standardised operations and continuous improvement across all facilities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all manufacturing activities across multiple UK sites
  • Manage capital expenditure planning and resource allocation in line with strategic goals
  • Oversee full vehicle build programmes – from concept through to final assembly and delivery – ensuring timelines, quality, and cost targets are met to build right first time
  • Plan, design, and create full shop floor layouts and cell designs including the set-up of a new Manufacturing facility
  • Implement best-in-class manufacturing processes and lean production principles to drive efficiency and minimise waste
  • Ensure all manufacturing operations comply with UK automotive standards, health & safety regulations, and environmental requirements (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 9001)
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives (lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.)
  • Lead and mentor senior managers to ensure team effectiveness, fostering a high-performance culture with strong accountability
  • Collaborate with engineering, design, procurement, and quality departments to ensure seamless integration across all stages of the build
  • Champion continuous improvement and innovation in manufacturing methods, automation, and workforce capability
  • Monitor KPIs, analyse performance data, and report progress to executive leadership

Essential Skills

  • Degree qualified or equivalent in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field; additional business qualifications (e.g. MBA) would be desirable
  • Proven experience of working as the Director or Head of Manufacturing in the automotive or specialist vehicle sector
  • Strong background and demonstrated experience in overseeing facility set ups and end-to-end vehicle builds, from chassis fabrication to final assembly and testing
  • Multi-site leadership experience, with ability to align teams and processes across different locations
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to get the best from the teams
  • Deep knowledge of UK automotive manufacturing standards, quality systems (e.g. ISO 9001, IATF 16949), and regulatory compliance
  • Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and modern production methodologies
  • Demonstrated ability to manage change, scale operations, and implement strategic transformation
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Microsoft Office proficient to an advanced level
  • Team player and positive attitude towards mastering challenges and changes
  • Driving Licence and willingness to travel regularly between Coventry, Newton Aycliffe, and Thruxton with overnight stays
  • Must have IDLR/Full Rights to Work in UK - Sponsorship or Work Permits will not be accepted/ provided

Our inclusive workplace welcomes and values all candidates from all backgrounds; we believe that diversity enhances our ability to innovate and serve our customers effectively. We are an equal opportunity employer and strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to bring their authentic selves to work. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site) employer: Recruitment Bunker

The DRVN Automotive Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Coventry that fosters innovation and excellence in the automotive sector. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and comprehensive benefits including pension and healthcare, employees are supported in their professional growth while being part of groundbreaking projects like Evoluto. Our inclusive culture values diversity and encourages collaboration across multiple sites, providing unique opportunities for leadership and development in a rapidly evolving industry.
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Contact Detail:

Recruitment Bunker Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the automotive industry, especially those who have experience in multi-site manufacturing. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in the field.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the specific manufacturing standards and regulations mentioned in the job description, such as IATF 16949 and ISO 9001. Being well-versed in these standards will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies like Six Sigma and Kaizen. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented these practices in previous roles to drive efficiency and reduce waste.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight your leadership style and how you foster a high-performance culture within teams. Think of examples where you've successfully led cross-functional teams or managed change across multiple sites, as this will resonate well with the expectations for this role.

We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)

Strategic Leadership
Operational Oversight
Capital Expenditure Planning
Resource Allocation
Full Vehicle Build Management
Shop Floor Layout Design
Lean Manufacturing Principles
Compliance with UK Automotive Standards
Continuous Improvement Initiatives
Team Leadership and Mentoring
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Performance Data Analysis
Change Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Advanced Microsoft Office Proficiency
Driving Licence
Multi-Site Leadership Experience

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in manufacturing leadership, particularly in the automotive sector. Emphasise your achievements in overseeing vehicle production and managing multi-site operations.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the automotive industry and detail how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Manufacturing Director role. Mention specific examples of how you've driven efficiency and quality in previous positions.

Highlight Key Skills: Clearly outline your expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and regulatory compliance. Use bullet points to make these skills stand out, as they are crucial for this role.

Showcase Leadership Experience: Provide examples of how you've led teams and managed change in previous roles. Highlight your ability to foster a high-performance culture and mentor senior managers, as this is essential for the position.

How to prepare for a job interview at Recruitment Bunker

✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience

As a Manufacturing Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor teams effectively. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed multi-site operations and driven performance improvements in previous roles.

✨Understand the Company's Vision

Familiarise yourself with DRVN Automotive Group's recent projects and innovations, such as the Evoluto launch. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals will show your genuine interest in the company and its future.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect questions related to UK automotive manufacturing standards and lean production methodologies. Brush up on your knowledge of ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and continuous improvement techniques like Six Sigma to demonstrate your expertise.

✨Highlight Your Strategic Thinking

Be ready to discuss your approach to capital expenditure planning and resource allocation. Share examples of how you've implemented strategic transformations in past roles, focusing on how these initiatives have led to improved efficiency and quality.

Manufacturing Director ( Multi Site)
Recruitment Bunker
R
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