At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations and ensure on-time delivery of innovative sensor technology projects.
- Company: Join Hitachi Rail, a leader in innovative sensor technology for the rail industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and flexible perks tailored to your lifestyle.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing management and a degree in Engineering or related field.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We design and manufacture highly innovative sensor technology for the rail industry, working in small, specialist teams where engineering excellence, precision and collaboration truly matter. Our environments are agile, technically complex and hands‑on – perfect for an experienced Manufacturing Manager who enjoys being close to the detail while influencing the bigger picture.
If you've built your career in niche manufacturing settings and love leading teams through growth, change and continuous improvement, this could be your next challenge. As Manufacturing Manager, you'll lead manufacturing operations across two sites in Romsey and Derby, with overall responsibility for delivery, quality, cost and capability. Reporting into the Manufacturing & Quality Director, you'll work closely with Engineering, Project Management and Supply Chain teams to ensure customer projects are delivered efficiently, safely and to the highest quality standards.
This is a role for someone who thrives in technically complex, low‑volume / high‑precision manufacturing, and who enjoys balancing strategic oversight with day‑to‑day problem solving.
What You'll Be Doing- Leading manufacturing operations across two UK sites, ensuring on‑time delivery of customer projects
- Working closely with Project Managers and Engineers to track progress, manage risk and resolve issues early
- Owning production performance, ensuring teams work to standard times and deliver against cost, quality and schedule targets
- Developing manufacturing processes that are repeatable, robust and continuously improving
- Supporting the introduction of new products and processes, embedding quality from day one
- Driving lean manufacturing principles, DFMA, FMEA and other best‑practice methodologies
- Managing internal capacity and outsourcing to meet short‑ and long‑term demand
- Building capable, flexible teams through strong communication, coaching and development
- Proven production or manufacturing management experience in a high‑technology or complex engineering environment
- A strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems
- Hands-on problem‑solving skills and a data‑led mindset
- Experience using Lean, Six Sigma, Total Quality or similar methodologies
- The ability to work collaboratively across engineering, projects and leadership teams
- A degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Manufacturing or a related discipline
You are an experienced Manufacturing or Production Manager with a strong engineering foundation, ideally gained in small, innovative or specialist manufacturing environments. You are comfortable wearing multiple hats, enjoy being close to the operation, and take pride in developing people as much as processes.
Benefits- Competitive salary
- Potential opportunity for annual performance related bonus
- 25 days holiday
- Pension scheme with contributions up to 9%
- Private medical insurance
- Personal Accident insurance
- Group Income protection
- Group Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
We also offer additional perks for you to choose from within a flexible plan that will meet your specific needs and lifestyle. At Hitachi Rail, there is a place for everyone. We welcome and value differences in background, age, gender, sexuality, family status, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion and worldview. It is our commitment to create an inclusive environment – we are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer.
Manufacturing Manager employer: Hitachi, Ltd
At Hitachi Rail, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the rail industry. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and a flexible benefits plan tailored to individual needs, ensuring that every team member can thrive both personally and professionally. With a focus on inclusivity and a supportive environment across our Romsey and Derby sites, we empower our Manufacturing Managers to lead with confidence while making a meaningful impact on our cutting-edge projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at companies like Hitachi Rail. A personal recommendation can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and ERP/MRP systems. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams through change and continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on problem-solving skills during interviews. Discuss real-life scenarios where you tackled complex issues in manufacturing settings, highlighting your data-led mindset and collaborative approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our innovative team at Hitachi Rail.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Manufacturing Manager role. Highlight your experience in high-technology or complex engineering environments, and don’t forget to mention any hands-on problem-solving skills you have!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about leading manufacturing operations and how your background aligns with our focus on innovation and quality. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you've improved processes or led teams to success. Numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hitachi, Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Metrics
Familiarise yourself with key manufacturing metrics like OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and how they apply to the role. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics in past roles to drive improvements and ensure quality.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare specific examples of challenges you've faced in manufacturing settings and how you resolved them. Highlight your hands-on approach and data-led mindset, as these are crucial for the Manufacturing Manager position.
✨Understand Lean Principles
Brush up on Lean manufacturing principles and methodologies like Six Sigma or DFMA. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented these practices in previous roles to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
✨Emphasise Team Development
Since building capable teams is a key part of the role, think about how you've coached and developed team members in the past. Share your strategies for fostering collaboration and communication within teams.
