At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations and drive improvements in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Dellner Polymer, a forward-thinking company investing in innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of production with significant investment in technology.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming production processes and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and a data-driven mindset.
Reporting to: Operations Director, UK
Ford & Stanley Executive Search are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:
- Rail & Transportation
- Civils & Construction
- Manufacturing & Supply Chain
- Technology & Cyber Security
- Logistics & Intermodal Freight
- Defence
We have been exclusively appointed by Dellner Polymer on a retained search for a Head of Production. Below you will find a ‘Candidate Opportunity Brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting held between the Search Director of Executive Search and the Operations Director at Dellner Polymer. This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.
Client Opportunity Statements:
"The business is on a journey to drive operational excellence across its UK manufacturing operations, with a clear focus on improving performance, increasing productivity, and creating a more consistent, high-performing production environment. As a newly created position, the Head of Production will be central to delivering these ambitions and supporting the continued growth of the division. A key part of this transformation is the significant investment being made into the business, including nearly £1m of new machinery and the increasing use of operational data. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in translating data into actionable insights, improving build plan adherence, reducing downtime, and ensuring the business realises a strong return on its investments. The incoming Head of Production must be a genuine people leader who can establish credibility quickly, win hearts and minds across the organisation, and lead from the front. With responsibility for Production, Planning, Stores and Factory Operations, this individual will become a trusted deputy to the Operations Director and a driving force behind the next phase of the business’s growth and cultural development."
Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:
- The incoming Head of Production will be challenged with plenty of opportunities to make progress. It will be of paramount importance that they quickly establish strong priorities.
- It’s no secret that there is an element of resistance to change within the culture at the site. The incoming Head of Production will need to establish leadership quickly.
- Although data is available it’s not widely utilised within the business and as such, it’s imperative that the incoming Head of Production works quickly to upskill those involved to enable full utilisation.
Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:
- Improve build plan adherence and the stability between the plan and shipment.
- Reduce downtime on machines and improve understanding of productivity.
- Leverage data to understand roadmap to improvement.
Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience):
- Able to demonstrate their understanding of a data led manufacturing approach.
- Understanding ‘best in practice’ processes such as Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing etc.
- Strong problem solver with an ability to ‘think outside of the box’.
- Experience within engineering or manufacturing businesses.
- Capable of managing change and delivering improvements within a production environment.
Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours):
- A resilient character who will lead from the front and ensure positive culture.
- Collaborative individual who will build strong partnerships across the business and drive collaborative working.
- A sense of confidence and energy to drive change.
- Experience building relationships shop floor to boardroom.
- Demonstratable experience of ‘feeling the weight of the table’ in the operations they have led.
Interview Process:
- 1st Stage Interview: Teams session to be held with the Operations Director
- 2nd Stage interview: On site with the Operations Director and HR.
The Head of Production is a newly created position and forms a key part of the strategy to accelerate growth and operational performance. The successful candidate will become the right hand to the Operations Director and take ownership of Production, Planning, Stores and Factory Operations. The business has in excess of two years of secured order book, providing a strong platform for future growth. It is vital that the successful candidate can win hearts and minds, establish credibility quickly and maintain a visible presence on the shop floor.
Head of Production employer: Ford & Stanley Select
Dellner Polymer offers an exceptional work environment for the Head of Production role, characterised by a strong commitment to operational excellence and significant investment in advanced manufacturing technologies. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages personal growth and innovation, with ample opportunities to lead transformative projects and make a tangible impact on the business's success. Located in a dynamic sector, this position not only promises a competitive salary and benefits but also the chance to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to continuous improvement and employee engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Production
✨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 Ford & Stanley Select, 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 Production
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 Ford & Stanley Select 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 Ford & Stanley Select
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Ford & Stanley Select, 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 Ford & Stanley Select 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.
