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- Tasks: Lead and improve manufacturing operations in a hands-on, dynamic environment.
- Company: Established bespoke manufacturing business in North Devon with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and long-term growth opportunities.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and scalability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on operational performance and team development in a growing company.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in manufacturing and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Seeking an experienced Head of Manufacturing to join our client, a well-established and growing bespoke manufacturing business based in North Devon, supplying a broad range of industrial and commercial sectors.
As part of its continued growth and operational development, the business is seeking an experienced and hands-on Head of Manufacturing to lead the production operation through its next phase of development, performance improvement and scalability. This is a senior operational leadership role with genuine influence across the business. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the successful candidate will take ownership of manufacturing performance, accountability, operational structure and continuous improvement across a multi-area production environment.
This is not an office-based operations role. It is a visible, shop-floor-led leadership position suited to someone who thrives within a bespoke manufacturing environment and is confident leading people, improving standards and driving operational performance. The business has built a strong reputation within its sector and is investing in the next stage of operational growth and development.
The Head of Manufacturing will lead the day-to-day manufacturing operation, ensuring output, efficiency, quality and OTIF performance are delivered consistently and sustainably. This role is centred around people leadership, operational discipline and building a scalable manufacturing structure capable of supporting future growth. The successful candidate will work closely with Production Managers and the wider leadership team to improve communication, accountability, planning visibility and operational consistency across the business.
Key Responsibilities for the Head of Manufacturing:
- Drive output, labour efficiency and on-time delivery performance
- Identify and remove operational bottlenecks and inefficiencies
- Align production capacity with customer demand and operational priorities
- Maintain high standards of quality, discipline, safety and housekeeping
- Improve operational visibility and overall manufacturing performance
- Lead, support and develop Production Managers and supervisory teams
- Establish a clear culture of accountability, pace, communication and professionalism
- Run structured daily operational meetings and performance reviews
- Strengthen management capability and consistency across the factory
- Lead operational change positively whilst maintaining team engagement and stability
- Improve scheduling visibility, coordination and forward planning
- Embed KPI discipline and accurate operational reporting
- Support ERP/MRP system development and operational usage
- Ensure proactive problem solving and effective escalation management
- Improve coordination between production, planning and commercial functions
- Improve workflow, layout and productivity in a practical and measurable manner
- Reduce reliance on individuals through stronger systems and structure
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the manufacturing operation
- Support long-term operational planning and future business growth
- Help build a scalable and resilient manufacturing function capable of supporting continued expansion
Requirements of the Head of Manufacturing candidate:
The successful candidate will be an experienced manufacturing leader with a strong operational background and a visible, hands-on leadership style. You will demonstrate the following skills & experience:
- Proven senior leadership experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment
- Strong people leadership and team management capability
- A track record of driving accountability, operational performance and improvement
- Experience managing Production Managers and structured manufacturing teams
- Strong commercial awareness and confident decision-making ability
- The ability to positively challenge existing practices and lead change effectively
- Excellent organisational, communication and operational planning skills
- A practical, solutions-focused approach combined with strategic operational thinking
- Experience within bespoke manufacturing, industrial production or engineered manufacturing environments would be advantageous, although not essential.
You will demonstrate the following Personal Attributes:
- Calm, decisive and solutions-focused
- Organised and structured
- Resilient and performance-driven
- Commercially aware
- Approachable but authoritative
- Naturally proactive and improvement-focused
- Comfortable operating within a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Able to build credibility and trust quickly across all levels of the business
Package for the Head of Manufacturing:
- Competitive salary dependent on experience
- Performance-related bonus potential
- Senior leadership role with genuine operational influence
- Long-term opportunity within a growing manufacturing business
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping and strengthening the future manufacturing operation
Head of Manufacturing in Barnstaple employer: Cooper Golding
Contact Detail:
Cooper Golding Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Manufacturing in Barnstaple
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend manufacturing events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Head of Manufacturing role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your practical skills and leadership style. They want someone who can lead from the front, so make sure they see that in you.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their production processes, challenges, and successes. This will help you tailor your answers and show them you're the perfect fit for their bespoke manufacturing environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you ace your job search. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Manufacturing in Barnstaple
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Manufacturing role. Highlight your relevant experience in manufacturing leadership and operational performance. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvements and led teams in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We’re looking for someone who can lead with authority and approachability. In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed teams in a fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cooper Golding
✨Know Your Manufacturing Metrics
Before the interview, brush up on key manufacturing metrics like output efficiency, OTIF performance, and quality standards. Being able to discuss these metrics confidently will show that you understand the operational side of the role and can drive performance improvements.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in a manufacturing environment. Highlight your hands-on approach and how you've developed Production Managers or supervisory teams. This will demonstrate your capability to foster a culture of accountability and professionalism.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Continuous Improvement
Think of specific initiatives you've implemented that improved workflow or reduced inefficiencies. Be prepared to explain your thought process and the measurable outcomes. This shows you're not just about maintaining standards but also about driving change.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research the company’s growth plans and operational goals. Being able to align your experience with their vision will make you stand out. Show them that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you want to be part of their journey towards scalability and success.