At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the production team, driving operational excellence and strategic direction.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing company based in Wakefield with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment with a commitment to continuous improvement and safety.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping production strategies and leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in manufacturing and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 41000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Head of Production to lead and develop our manufacturing operation at our Wakefield headquarters. Reporting into the Managing Director, this is a senior leadership position responsible for setting the direction, standards and performance of the production function across the business. Leading a team of Production Managers and departmental leaders, you will ensure the operation is aligned to business objectives, customer demand and future growth plans. This role is less about managing the day to day activities of the factory floor and more about providing the strategic leadership, structure and operational framework that enables production teams to perform at their best. You will be responsible for developing capability across the management team, driving operational excellence and ensuring the business continues to improve productivity, quality, service and profitability.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Production Management team, creating a high performing and accountable culture
- Set the strategic direction of the manufacturing operation in line with business objectives
- Own production performance across the facility, ensuring targets for output, quality, efficiency and delivery are achieved
- Develop and implement operational plans to support business growth, capacity requirements and future investment
- Establish, monitor and drive key performance indicators across all manufacturing departments
- Work closely with senior leadership to align production capability with commercial objectives and customer demand
- Champion continuous improvement initiatives, embedding best practice and operational excellence throughout the business
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste and optimise manufacturing processes
- Lead succession planning and management development programmes across production teams
- Ensure effective communication and collaboration between production, planning, quality, maintenance and logistics functions
- Support the evaluation and implementation of new equipment, technology and manufacturing processes
- Maintain high standards of health, safety, quality and compliance throughout the operation
What We Are Looking For
- Proven experience in a senior manufacturing leadership role such as Head of Production, Manufacturing Manager, Operations Manager or Production Director
- Strong experience leading through Production Managers and departmental leaders
- Background within window, door, fenestration or a similar manufacturing environment
- Demonstrable success in improving operational performance, productivity and efficiency
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance service, quality and cost objectives
- Experience implementing continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principles
- Excellent leadership, coaching and people development skills
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business objectives into operational plans
- Strong analytical and problem solving capability with a data driven approach to decision making
- Experience supporting business growth, change management and operational transformation
Ready to start your career with us? Apply with your CV.
Senior Head of Production employer: CO Manufacturing
At our Wakefield headquarters, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of accountability and high performance. As a Senior Head of Production, you will not only lead a talented team but also have the opportunity to drive strategic initiatives that enhance operational excellence and support your professional growth. With a competitive salary and benefits, we are committed to creating a collaborative environment where innovation thrives and employees can make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head of Production
✨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 CO Manufacturing, 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 Senior Head of Production
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 CO Manufacturing 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 CO Manufacturing
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with CO Manufacturing, 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 CO Manufacturing 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.
