Manufacturing Team Leader in Hitchin

Position Overview
Reporting to the Value Stream Supervisor, this role is responsible for ensuring the execution and delivery of the order book for the Value Stream. As the first level of supervision for the team, it has the responsibility of planning and releasing work orders to satisfy demand, be it for sales orders, safety stock, forecast or Kanban demand. The individual performing this role has the responsibility for identifying and removing roadblocks to safely delivering orders to the right quality and on time.

Principal Responsibilities
To ensure that the daily manufacturing plan is delivered in line with Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and Growth targets.
Proactively lead and motivate teams of employees to achieve both value stream and business targets and objectives, whilst ensuring that all processes and procedures are fully adhered to in line with 5S.
To carry out root cause analysis and manage and implement corrective actions when issues are identified.
Actively use the Crane Business System tools to identify and implement productivity improvements.
To support the SQDCG process by updating and displaying the necessary KPI information on the SQDCG board on a daily basis and use it to analyse root cause and drive improvements.
To identify, assist and drive the training and development of direct reports.
Management of absence and discipline for direct reports with support of line manager and HR.
To lead by example in safe working practices and to ensure that all direct reports fully comply with all company and legislative Health & Safety requirements.
To report and support Value Stream Supervisor with the investigation of accident or near‑miss incidents, and to facilitate corrective and preventive actions.
Through the utilisation of QAD ensure that production plans are prepared and agreed with manufacturing to meet customer delivery requirements, maximising OTD, production capacity and absorption rates.
Monitoring manufacturing performance against plan, identification and resolution of downfalls and communication of potential issues to the Value Stream Supervisor.
Effective maintenance and control of stock levels through PI system and audits; driving corrective actions where necessary.
Scheduling of raw materials through Kanban systems.
In conjunction with the Value Stream Supervisor work with supply chain to ensure material parameters are optimised for maximum availability, whilst managing stock turns.
Work with manufacturing, engineering and quality where BoM and drawing issues arise.
Communicating required materials to supply chain through shortage reports.
In conjunction with the Value Stream Supervisor ensure an appropriate labour plan is in place to meet plans.
Ensure that production schedules are updated and closely monitored.
Liaise directly with the Planner, Team Leaders and Value Stream Supervisor with regard to planned outputs and any changes in priority.
Produce shortage reports and liaise with supply chain to ensure that countermeasures are implemented to prevent OTD misses.
Support the generation of 3 in 1’s for any metric misses in the month.
Ensure effective inventory control over work in process, and component stocks.
Assist the engineering functions within the business to process prototype, refurbishment or rework orders through the manufacturing facility.

Qualifications, Experience and Training
A formal management qualification at least level 2 NVQ in first line management and supervision.
Must have a formal qualification in managing safely, i.e. IOSH.
Must have a good understanding of the work scheduling systems in use throughout the department, whether by works orders or Kanban systems.
Ideally will have a good working knowledge of a computer based MRP system such as Q.A.D.

Personal Characteristics
Must be a positive, hands‑on individual who can carry out all tasks and is capable of training others.
A strong desire to succeed.
Adaptable, disciplined, ambitious, strategic thinker, team orientated.
Effective influencing and persuading skills.
Initiative, drive and enthusiasm.

Benefits
Beyond an associate’s base compensation, we reward and reinforce wellbeing with a compelling package of both cash and non‑cash benefits, including comprehensive health, wellness incentives, assistance with retirement savings, paid time off, paid holidays, and tuition reimbursement – as well as performance‑based bonus programs for certain positions. Crane prioritises career development for our associates. All associates receive an annual development plan that includes a mixture of on‑the‑job coaching and formal training experiences to support individual development needs. We firmly believe in associate growth that supports career progression and we will proactively support your ongoing career development.