Our client, Thomas Fawcett & Sons is one of Britain’s oldest independent maltsters — family-owned across eight generations and operating from the same Castleford site since 1809. We supply malted grains to craft brewers, distillers and food producers across the UK and internationally, combining traditional floor malting with modern germination and kilning technology.
Following the planned retirement of our long-serving Production Director, we are seeking an exceptional operational leader to take full accountability for our Castleford site.
This is a genuinely broad leadership role, with full site P&L accountability and direct influence from the shop floor to the main board. You will lead a team of around 50 people and play a central role in our next phase of modernisation — including digital systems, data capture, automation, energy efficiency and future capacity investment.
The successful candidate will have responsibility for production, quality, technical, H&S, engineering, people, barley purchasing and site financial performance.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has senior operational leadership experience in malting, brewing, distilling or grain processing.
- Has held full P&L/site financial responsibility.
- Has a strong track record in people leadership, H&S, quality and industrial/union relations.
- Can earn the respect of experienced operational teams while engaging confidently with customers, suppliers and the board.
- Brings the ambition and commercial breadth to grow with the business.
- Ideally has led modernisation or digital transformation within a traditional manufacturing environment.
Applications from candidates already eligible to work in the UK only please.
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Production Director in Castleford employer: Carling Recruitment
As a leading player in the beverage manufacturing sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. Our Head of Production role offers not only competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth but also the chance to make a tangible impact in a fast-paced environment. Located in a vibrant area, our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that you will be at the forefront of innovation while working alongside a passionate team dedicated to quality and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Director in Castleford
✨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 Carling Recruitment, 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!
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 Carling Recruitment 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 Carling Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Carling Recruitment, 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 Carling Recruitment 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.
