At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead day-to-day production and drive operational excellence in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a growing manufacturing operation with a focus on innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, car allowance, and additional perks.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of safety, inclusivity, and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-visibility role with clear progression opportunities.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in manufacturing and strong operational expertise required.
This is a business-critical Production Management role running the day-to-day production within a growing manufacturing operation, offering full ownership of end-to-end production.
As Head of Production, you will lead the performance and efficiency of manufacturing across all manufacturing processes in a vertically integrated organisation. While this role is primarily day-to-day production management, you will also play a key role in driving operational excellence, scaling capacity, and supporting the company’s growth ambitions. You will be a senior member of the Operations team, with significant influence over performance, culture, and continuous improvement across the operation.
Scope & Scale
- Manufacturing responsibility
- Leadership of Production Managers, Supervisors, and large shift-based teams
- Ownership of production budgets including labour, materials, and efficiency
- End-to-end production accountability
Key Responsibilities
- Operational & Strategic Leadership
- Lead all manufacturing operations to achieve output, cost, quality, and service targets
- Drive capacity optimisation, labour planning, and operational efficiency across sites
- Ensure manufacturing processes are robust, scalable, and fit for growth
- Health, Safety & Quality
- Build and maintain a high-performing safety-first culture
- Ensure full compliance with HSE legislation, internal policies, and industry standards
- Drive improvements in right-first-time, defect reduction, and customer quality outcomes
- Continuous Improvement & Transformation
- Be part of the Lean manufacturing and CI team to improve operational efficiencies
- Improve key metrics such as OEE, yield, and right-first-time performance
- Leadership & Culture
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing production leadership team
- Build capability, accountability, and engagement across the workforce
- Foster a strong, inclusive, performance-driven culture aligned to business values
- Work effectively within a unionised environment
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Partner closely with Supply Chain, Planning, Engineering, Maintenance, and Logistics to ensure end-to-end operational delivery
- Performance & Governance
- Own and report on key KPIs including output, efficiency, cost, scrap, safety, and labour performance
- Ensure strong governance, reporting accuracy, and operational discipline
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a proven senior manufacturing leader who can combine hands-on operational expertise with strategic thinking.
Experience
- Significant leadership experience within manufacturing or production environments
- Track record of managing large, shift-based operations
- Demonstrated success in driving operational improvement and cultural change
- Experience within unionised environments is highly desirable
Technical Capability
- Strong understanding of production planning, capacity management, and labour optimisation
- Experience using KPIs, ERP/MRP systems, and performance reporting tools
- Background in building products, windows/doors, or similar manufacturing advantageous
Leadership Profile
Visible, credible leader with the ability to operate mainly at day-to-day operational levels and support strategic developments as required. Results-driven, with a focus on performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Why This Role?
- Full operational ownership across a complex manufacturing environment
- High-impact role with strong visibility and influence within the business
- Clear pathway for progression into broader operational leadership roles
Package
- Competitive base salary
- Performance-related bonus
- Car allowance
- Additional benefits package
Location & Flexibility
- Site-based role
- Flexibility required to support operational demands and shift-based environments
Our Company is committed to monitoring & aligning its Policies with up-to-date Government guidance on reducing the spread of respiratory infections in the workplace. Through the Company’s value of “Succeed Together” we are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We recruit the ‘best person for the job’ regardless of any protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010 creating an inclusive working environment and culture for our employees.
Head of Production - Manufacturing employer: Anglian Home Improvements
At Anglian, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where every team member is valued. As an Accounts Payable Officer, you will benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance, all while contributing to a company that prioritises excellence and integrity in its operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Production - Manufacturing
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Anglian Home Improvements, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Production - Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Anglian Home Improvements specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anglian Home Improvements
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Anglian Home Improvements, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Anglian Home Improvements value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
