Core Manufacturing Manager - Advanced Materials Manufacturing in Cambridge

Core Manufacturing Manager

Advanced Materials Manufacturing | Cambridgeshire | Permanent | Predominantly site-based THE OPPORTUNITY We're partnering with a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing, supplying high-performance products into the aerospace and industrial markets, to appoint a Core Manufacturing Manager at one of its key UK manufacturing sites. The role has opened up following an internal promotion, which says a lot about the career progression on offer here. You'll take full ownership of one of the site's production areas, leading a team of Shift Team Leaders and Production Operatives. You'll be responsible for safety, people, output, quality, cost and stock. The role would suit either of two profiles: • A strong Shift Team Leader or Production Supervisor ready to step into a first management role • An experienced Production Manager looking for a new challenge in a technically interesting, well-invested environment You'll also work closely with R&D and the manufacturing innovation team to scale new products from laboratory to full production. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING Safety & Compliance • Make sure EHS legislation and site procedures are followed at all times, keeping the working environment safe • Manage the HAZOP process for a high-hazard process area • Assess and write high-risk permits to work, including confined space entry Production & Performance • Develop, budget and deliver the annual production plan for your area • Manage a broad product range, delivered on time, to quality and within standard cost • Look after a significant capital asset base, including coaters, presses, ovens and cutting equipment • Lead the operational introduction of new products and processes • Control stock and minimise WIP and finished goods inventory, working alongside Logistics • Partner with Maintenance on breakdown response and a 12-month planned maintenance schedule Continuous Improvement • Identify and deliver cost-saving and CI projects that make a measurable difference • Use Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, PFMEA and structured root cause analysis to improve methods, workflow, quality and cost • Own 5S standards across the area • Support capital expenditure decisions on improvements to process safety, environment, capability and capacity Quality • Drive right-first-time performance and first-pass quality against plan • Lead quality investigations with a strong focus on root cause • Manage non-conformances and engage internal and external stakeholders, including the customer warranty process People Leadership • Lead, motivate and develop a shift-based team of Shift Team Leaders and Production Operatives • Own training, assessment and performance reviews to build a flexible, multi-skilled workforce • Manage labour distribution, recruitment and headcount planning for your area Business Engagement • Report performance and current issues up the management structure • Attend and contribute to monthly S&OP and weekly planning and scheduling meetings • Work with Sales and Marketing on customer requests, and support R&D with experimental material runs and customer samples WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR • A chemical background is essential, ideally a degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering. Engineering or Materials Science graduates with strong chemical manufacturing experience will also be considered • A background in chemical manufacturing, aerospace or automotive. Composites experience is not essential • Proven experience as a Shift Team Leader, Production Supervisor or Production Manager • Strong, hands-on leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a shop-floor team • Good planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities at once • Clear communication at all levels, from operatives to senior leadership • A practical, timely approach to problem solving • Advanced Excel skills and strong Microsoft Office capability • Desirable: Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, PFMEA, structured root cause analysis and Minitab WHAT'S ON OFFER • A competitive basic salary • Annual bonus of up to 10%, based on site-wide performance • Defined contribution pension with employer matching up to 13%, giving up to 20% combined • Life assurance and income protection • Private medical at a 50% discount, with no underwriting, unlimited outpatient cover, physio and extensive cancer cover. Fully company-paid after 5 years' service • Discounted employee share purchase plan • 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays • Flexi-time scheme, with banked hours available as additional time off • On-site occupational health, a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and eye care support • Subsidised canteen, free on-site parking and EV charging • A genuine career path within a global manufacturing business that promotes from within For a confidential conversation, apply here or message me directly.