At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing strategy and drive continuous improvement across the business.
- Company: Join Company Shop Group, a leader in redistributing surplus food and household products.
- Benefits: Enjoy free membership, discounts, health benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and community support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on operational excellence and sustainable growth.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in manufacturing and continuous improvement with strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Manufacturing at Company Shop Group
Salary: £80,000+ Location: Tankersley, Barnsley
Are you an experienced manufacturing and continuous improvement leader looking for an opportunity to make a real difference and shape the future of a growing business? At Company Shop Group, we’re looking for a Head of Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement to work closely with our Operations Director to help define and deliver our transition towards a more manufacturing-focused future, driving operational excellence and long-term business growth.
About us: Company Shop Group (CSG), part of Biffa, are the largest commercial redistributor of surplus food and household products in the UK. We enable some of the biggest retailers, manufacturers, food service and logistics providers to unlock value from surplus stock, which may have otherwise gone to waste. The surplus we handle is redistributed through our Company Shop stores and our award-winning social enterprise Community Shop where we build stronger individuals and more confident communities. Working with our partners, we deliver an incredible impact and we're proud to be a good business doing good. We believe different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds are key to developing a creative and effective working environment which is why you’ll find us championing diversity and equality at every turn.
About the role: This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing our future manufacturing strategy, identifying new opportunities and embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the business. We’re looking for someone who can think strategically but also make things happen. Someone who brings fresh ideas, challenges the status quo and has the experience and drive to deliver meaningful, sustainable improvements.
What will you be doing? As Head of Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement, you will play a key role in:
- Developing and delivering our long-term manufacturing and operational excellence strategy.
- Driving productivity, efficiency and performance improvements through data-led decision-making.
- Leading strategic transformation and continuous improvement projects across the business.
- Championing Lean principles, operational excellence and best practice.
- Identifying opportunities for automation, technology and innovation to future-proof our operations.
- Developing the capabilities, processes and infrastructure needed to support our future growth.
- Working collaboratively with teams across the business to deliver measurable and sustainable improvements.
- Building continuous improvement capability through coaching, development and knowledge sharing.
Requirements: What are we looking for? We’re looking for an experienced leader with a strong background in manufacturing, operations, continuous improvement or operational excellence, who can bring strategic thinking, commercial awareness and practical delivery. You’ll need to demonstrate:
- Significant leadership experience within manufacturing, operations or continuous improvement.
- A proven track record of delivering productivity, efficiency and business performance improvements.
- Experience leading transformation, change and continuous improvement programmes.
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma or other operational excellence methodologies.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- The ability to lead cross-functional projects and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience building high-performing teams and developing a culture of accountability and innovation.
- Experience in automation, digital transformation, operational technology or supporting a business through a transition towards a more manufacturing-led operating model would also be desirable.
Benefits: What's in it for you:
- Free membership to Company Shop for you and 10 x nominees.
- 10% CSG colleague discount.
- Doctor care Anywhere.
- Annual Flu Injections, high street & leisure vouchers, and on-site Parking.
- Subsidised staff Canteen, Free Tea & Coffee, and Free Fruit Friday!
- Employee Assistance Programme – Grocery Aid.
- Eligible for Costco membership, Cycle 2 Work, Skoup skip hire, too good to go bags.
- Medicash Simply Health Dental Plan.
- Eye tests.
- Contributory pension scheme with Life Assurance.
- Octopus EV Scheme.
- Holiday purchase scheme.
- Charitable giving.
- PLUS Family friendly benefits.
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, between 8:30am and 5:00pm. Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the business.
Why join Company Shop Group? This is an opportunity to join a business with ambitious plans for the future, where you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference to how we operate, improve and grow. Working closely with our operations Director and wider leadership team, you’ll help shape our manufacturing strategy, drive operational excellence and support the continued development of our business. If you’re passionate about manufacturing, continuous improvement and delivering meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and take the next step in your career with Company Shop Group.
Head of Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement employer: Company Shop Group
Company Shop Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Tankersley site where teamwork and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside competitive benefits including enhanced pay for night shifts. Join us to be part of a culture that values integrity and excellence in stock management, ensuring your contributions are recognised and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
✨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 Company Shop Group, 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 Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
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 Company Shop Group 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 Company Shop Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Company Shop Group, 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 Company Shop Group 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.
