At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead shift operations, ensuring safety and efficiency while achieving production targets.
- Company: Join Forterra, a leading UK manufacturer with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, pension contributions, and wellness programmes.
- Other info: Diverse perspectives welcomed; we value fresh thinking and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and a passion for continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 42 per week (4 on 4 off)
We are looking for a highly organised and proactive Shift Manager to join our Kirton team.
About the role
In this key leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing shift operations, ensuring the safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of production targets. You will lead and support operational teams, drive high performance, and ensure quality, safety and productivity standards are consistently achieved while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate and lead shift teams to deliver production activities safely, efficiently and in line with operational KPIs.
- Ensure all Health & Safety requirements are met or exceeded, maintaining compliance with legislation, Company standards and the Golden Rules.
- Develop the capability, skills and performance of team members to drive operational excellence and business success.
- Promote and embed a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging employee engagement and involvement in improvement initiatives.
- Identify and implement operational improvements that reduce costs, minimise waste, optimise energy consumption and improve overall efficiency.
- Champion best practice to maximise product yield, enhance quality standards and achieve performance targets.
- Manage operating costs and resources effectively to deliver performance in line with business objectives and budget requirements.
- Lead and support all people management activities, including performance management, absence management, employee development and engagement.
- Build positive working relationships across the site, fostering teamwork, collaboration and a strong team culture.
- Effectively manage conflict and employee relations issues to maintain a productive and positive working environment.
- Play an integral role within the plant management team, contributing to operational and strategic decision-making.
- Demonstrate effective resource planning and management to ensure the efficient operation of processes and production activities.
- Drive performance by combining strong production management with continuous improvement activities to meet or exceed operational targets.
- Lead sustainability initiatives within the operation, ensuring energy reduction, waste control and environmental considerations are embedded into processes and procedures.
- Deputise for the Production Manager as required, providing leadership and continuity across the operation.
About you
What we are looking for:
- A flexible and self-motivated individual who can thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong time management and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively.
- Self-aware, adaptable and capable of responding positively to changing business needs.
- A proactive approach with a passion for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Relevant operational experience within a manufacturing or production environment is essential.
- Previous supervisory or management experience, with the ability to lead, motivate and develop teams.
- Excellent communication skills, with confidence engaging stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong verbal and written interpersonal skills.
- Excellent IT skills, with confidence using operational and business systems.
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Office and other business software applications.
- IOSH Managing Safely qualification or willingness to work towards it (desirable).
- IEMA Environmental Sustainability Skills for Managers qualification (desirable).
- A recognised management qualification (desirable).
- The ability to support, develop and inspire teams to achieve performance goals.
- A commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety, quality and operational performance.
We don’t expect you to tick every box. If you bring the mindset, curiosity and drive to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Why join Forterra
At Forterra, our people are at the heart of what we do. We offer opportunities to develop your skills, build your career and make a real difference as part of a supportive team.
Benefits include:
- Pension (up to 10% from us)
- Competitive salary and generous holiday
- Employee Assistance Programme for yourself and family members
- Learning, development and career progression – Opportunities to help you grow
- Aviva Smart Health Life Assurance Scheme
- Financial Wellbeing Programme
- Wellhub Wellness Plans & Gym Membership
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme
- Holiday Exchange Scheme
- Sharesave Scheme & many more!
About Forterra
At Forterra, we don’t just make products, we make an impact. As a leading UK manufacturer of essential clay and concrete building materials our purpose is to help create lasting legacies. You will be part of a team that values fresh thinking, takes pride in quality, and supports one another to succeed. We create an environment where people feel empowered to bring ideas and grow. We know that diverse perspectives make us stronger. That’s why we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and identities.
If you believe you would be a good fit for the role, we would love to hear from you.
Our values are at the heart of how we work:
- Collaborate and Care– We believe we’re stronger together. Teamwork, open communication and looking out for each other are core to how we operate. We also put safety first – protecting people is always our top priority.
- Pride in Excellence– We celebrate achievement and take pride in the quality of our work. Whether you’re directly shaping products or supporting our operations, you’ll play a part in delivering excellence for our customers and the communities that we serve.
- Innovate to Lead– You’ll be encouraged to ask questions, bring ideas forward and help us find better, smarter ways of doing things. We never stand still – innovation is part of who we are, from sustainability initiatives and product development.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has the support they need to have a fair and positive experience throughout the application process.
Ready to join us? If you're ready to join a great team at one of the UK’s leading building products manufacturers, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and build your future with Forterra – your next challenge starts here.
Please note that we do not offer visa sponsorship. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Shift Manager - Kirton employer: Forterra Building Products Ltd
Forterra is an exceptional employer located in Desford, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises safety and continuous improvement. With a competitive salary and benefits package, including a generous pension scheme and personal development opportunities, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive within the company. The supportive culture and commitment to employee wellbeing make Forterra a rewarding place to build a career in the construction sector.
Contact Details:
Forterra Building Products Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Manager - Kirton
✨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 Forterra Building Products 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 Shift Manager - Kirton
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 Forterra Building Products 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 Forterra Building Products Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Forterra Building Products 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 Forterra Building Products 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.
