At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of manufacturing processes for next-gen clean energy technologies.
- Company: Pioneering clean energy tech firm focused on hydrogen power systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, private healthcare, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent growth opportunities in advanced energy technologies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the transition to sustainable energy while leading innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing engineering and taking products from prototype to production.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
A pioneering clean energy technology business is developing next-generation hydrogen power systems designed to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels. Combining advanced engineering, fuel cell technology and hydrogen generation systems, the company is moving from technology development into commercial deployment and manufacturing scale-up.
We're looking for an experienced Head of Manufacturing to lead the development of manufacturing capability across a portfolio of advanced energy products. You'll play a critical role in bridging the gap between engineering development and production, ensuring products can be manufactured safely, efficiently and at scale. This is a high-impact leadership position suited to someone who has successfully taken complex engineered products from prototype through industrialisation and into production, whilst building the systems, processes and supplier networks needed to support long‑term growth.
Responsibilities- Leading the development and optimisation of manufacturing processes for advanced energy technologies
- Driving the transition of products from prototype and development through to pilot production and manufacturing scale‑up
- Establishing manufacturing strategies focused on quality, cost, efficiency and operational performance
- Leading Design for Manufacture (DFM) and manufacturability reviews across new product development programmes
- Developing process flows, SOPs, work instructions and manufacturing controls
- Supporting production readiness, process validation and manufacturing audit activities
- Determining make‑versus‑buy decisions and developing outsourcing strategies where appropriate
- Building and managing supplier and contract manufacturing relationships
- Working closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality and Project teams to improve manufacturing performance and resolve technical challenges
- Leading and developing the Manufacturing Engineering team while supporting future growth of the function
- Driving continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality and waste reduction
- Supporting the introduction of new manufacturing technologies and production capabilities
- Manufacturing Engineering, Industrialisation, NPI or Production Engineering leadership roles
- Taking complex engineered products from development through to production and scale‑up
- Manufacturing process development, production readiness and operational improvement
- Design for Manufacture (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA) and manufacturability assessments
- Supplier development, contract manufacturing and make‑versus‑buy decision making
- Leading multidisciplinary engineering or manufacturing teams
- Working within advanced manufacturing, energy, aerospace, automotive, process engineering or industrial technology environments
- Driving manufacturing excellence across quality, cost and performance metrics
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering, operations and senior leadership teams
- Competitive salary
- Performance bonus scheme
- Share option scheme
- Private healthcare
- Contributory pension
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Life insurance
- Flexible working hours | 37.5 hrs/week
- Employer‑funded training & development
- Up to 4 weeks contractual sick pay
Head of Manufacturing employer: Cranleigh Scientific Ltd
Join a leading manufacturing organisation in Bracknell as a Maintenance Engineer, where you will be part of a supportive team dedicated to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency. With a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package, this role offers ample opportunities for training and professional growth in a dynamic environment that values employee contributions and fosters a positive work culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of 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 Cranleigh Scientific Ltd, 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
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 Cranleigh Scientific Ltd 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 Cranleigh Scientific Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Cranleigh Scientific Ltd, 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 Cranleigh Scientific Ltd 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.
