At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in manufacturing, shaping the future of production processes.
- Company: Join a fast-growing contract manufacturer in the food and wellness sector.
- Benefits: Exciting growth opportunities, investment in people, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Hands-on role with significant influence over operational evolution and expansion.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming manufacturing and developing future leaders.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in regulated environments, with a focus on continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
- Head of Manufacturing
- Monday - Friday
Build the Future of Manufacturing.
We're partnering with one of the UK's fastest-growing contract manufacturers operating within the food and wellness sector.
Following significant investment, continued commercial growth and ambitious expansion plans, the business is now looking to appoint a Head of Manufacturing to lead the next stage of its manufacturing evolution.
Reporting directly to the Operations Director, you'll take ownership of the manufacturing function, developing the people, processes, standards and structure required to support a business entering its next phase of growth, automation and operational scale.
If you're someone who enjoys creating structure, developing teams, improving performance and leaving a lasting legacy, this could be one of the most exciting manufacturing leadership opportunities currently available.
The Opportunity
You'll provide senior leadership across manufacturing, leading Production Managers and their wider teams while creating the systems, routines and operational discipline needed for a rapidly growing business.
The business manufactures a wide range of products within highly regulated production environments and continues to invest heavily in new equipment, automation and future manufacturing capability.
You'll play a central role in shaping how manufacturing operates today while preparing the business for tomorrow.
This is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role where you'll spend significant time on the factory floor, coaching teams, solving problems and driving continuous improvement.
- What You'll Be Responsible For
- Leading the manufacturing operation across multiple production departments.
- Coaching and developing Production Managers, Team Leaders and Supervisors.
- Building a high-performing manufacturing culture focused on accountability, engagement and continuous improvement.
- Driving improvements across productivity, labour utilisation, OEE, OTIF, downtime, Right First Time and overall operational performance.
- Developing stronger factory routines, communication, shift handovers and escalation processes.
- Working collaboratively with Engineering, Technical, Quality, Planning and Warehouse to improve overall site performance.
- Supporting future automation projects, new equipment implementation and operational change.
- Creating development plans and succession pathways across manufacturing.
- Helping prepare the business for significant future site expansion and increased manufacturing capability.
- We're Looking For
We're interested in experienced manufacturing leaders who thrive in fast-paced, regulated environments.
Backgrounds could include
- Food Manufacturing
- Nutraceuticals
- Pharmaceuticals
- Drink Manufacturing
- FMCG
- Cosmetics or Personal Care
You'll likely have experience as a
- Head of Manufacturing
- Manufacturing Manager
- Senior Production Manager
- Manufacturing Lead
Most importantly, you'll be an inspirational people leader who enjoys developing others, raising standards and building manufacturing functions that are ready for growth.
- What You'll Bring
- Proven senior manufacturing leadership experience within a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Experience leading Production Managers and multi-layer manufacturing teams.
- Strong understanding of GMP, quality systems and manufacturing best practice.
- Track record of improving manufacturing performance, productivity and operational efficiency.
- Experience implementing structure, process improvements and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
- Experience applying Continuous Improvement methodologies, including Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma, to improve productivity, reduce waste, optimise processes and enhance operational performance would be highly advantageous.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance operational performance alongside long-term business objectives.
- A strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and best practice within a manufacturing environment.
- IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH General Certificate or an equivalent Health & Safety qualification would be highly desirable.
- Excellent leadership, coaching and communication skills.
- The ability to balance strategic thinking with a genuine hands-on approach on the factory floor.
Experience within Food Manufacturing or Pharmaceutical Manufacturing would both be highly desirable.
Why This Opportunity?
Opportunities like this don't come around often.
You'll be joining a business that continues to invest heavily in its people, facilities and manufacturing capability, with exciting plans for further expansion over the coming years.
The company has significantly expanded its UK manufacturing footprint in recent years, added new production capabilities and is investing in a much larger future manufacturing facility to support continued growth.
Rather than simply maintaining an established operation, you'll have genuine influence over how manufacturing evolves.
You'll help shape future production structures, develop the next generation of manufacturing leaders and play a key role in delivering one of the company's most exciting periods of growth.
If you enjoy building, improving and making a real impact, we'd love to hear from you
Head of Manufacturing in Maidstone employer: Found Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Found Recruitment Solutions Ltd is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values reliability and hands-on experience. Employees benefit from a structured temp-to-perm pathway, ensuring job security and opportunities for growth within the thriving manufacturing sector of Littlehampton/Rustington. With a focus on high-quality standards and teamwork, this role provides a rewarding environment for those looking to develop their skills in metal finishing.
Contact Details:
Found Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Manufacturing in Maidstone
✨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 Found Recruitment Solutions 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 in Maidstone
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 Found Recruitment Solutions 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 Found Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Found Recruitment Solutions 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 Found Recruitment Solutions 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.
