(brough HU15 - East Yorkshire – with UK Travel)
About the Role
As one of the UK's leading food producers, Cranswick continues to invest in technology, operational excellence, and digital transformation across its manufacturing sites. We are looking for a Manufacturing Systems Lead to drive the successful implementation, adoption, and continuous improvement of manufacturing systems across our nationwide operations. This role combines technical systems expertise with strong stakeholder engagement and change leadership. Working closely with operational teams, project managers, IT specialists, and site leadership, you will ensure manufacturing technologies deliver real value on the factory floor while supporting business growth, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.
About Cranswick
Cranswick is one of the UK's leading food producers, supplying high-quality food products to major retailers, foodservice providers, and consumers nationwide. As part of our continued investment in technology, digital transformation, and operational excellence, we are looking for a Manufacturing Systems Lead to drive the successful delivery and adoption of manufacturing systems across our growing UK operations.
The Role
This is a hands-on role responsible for implementing, configuring, and embedding manufacturing systems across multiple sites. You'll work closely with Operations, Planning, IT, and Project teams to ensure systems are effectively deployed, adopted, and delivering value on the factory floor.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation and optimisation of manufacturing systems across Cranswick sites.
- Configure, test, troubleshoot, and support manufacturing and business systems.
- Deliver system change projects from requirements gathering through to go-live and hypercare support.
- Support integrations between MES, ERP, planning, reporting, and shop-floor systems.
- Develop and deliver training, user guides, and coaching to drive system adoption.
- Build strong relationships with operational teams, stakeholders, vendors, and project managers.
- Experience configuring and supporting Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), ERP systems, planning tools, or similar manufacturing technologies.
- Proven track record delivering system implementations within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience leading change, user adoption, and training initiatives.
- Understanding of system integrations, data flows, reporting, and process improvement.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Experience working across multiple sites and supporting live operational environments.
- Food Manufacturing or FMCG experience.
- Knowledge of CMEX, Redzone, Dynamics 365 Business Central, SAP, PlanStats, or similar platforms.
- Understanding of traceability, batch control, allergen management, BOMs, routings, and production planning.
- Experience working with operational, technical, and vendor teams to deliver business change.
Why Join Cranswick?
- Pension Scheme with enhanced contribution options
- Share Save Scheme
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Employee Discount Platform
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Systems Lead
✨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 Cranswick plc, 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!
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 Cranswick plc 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 Cranswick plc
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Cranswick plc, 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 Cranswick plc 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.
