At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations and ensure on-time delivery of innovative projects.
- Company: Join Hitachi Rail, a global leader in digital transformation and technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, 25 days holiday, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment with cutting-edge sensor technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing management and strong engineering foundation required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
A career at Hitachi Rail will help create a legacy. With operations in every corner of the world, our work goes to the cutting-edge of digital transformation and technology. From the multi-cultural strength of our global organisation to the sustainable and innovative ways we work to bring people together, there’s something for everyone to get stuck into.
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
About You
You’re an experienced Manufacturing or Production Manager with a strong engineering foundation, ideally gained in small, innovative or specialist manufacturing environments. You’re comfortable wearing multiple hats, enjoy being close to the operation, and take pride in developing people as much as processes.
You’ll bring:
- 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
What we offer
We value the importance of all of our employees, if you would like to join our fantastic organisation you could be entitled to:
- 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 world view. It is our commitment to create an inclusive environment - we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Manufacturing Manager employer: Hitachi
Hitachi Rail UK Limited is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal workplace for a Manufacturing Manager. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including a pension scheme and private medical insurance, and a commitment to employee development, you will thrive in a dynamic environment that values your contributions and encourages continuous improvement. Located in the vibrant areas of Romsey and Derby, you will be part of a diverse team dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology in the rail industry.
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 someone at Hitachi Rail. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Hitachi Rail's projects and values. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for innovation and how your experience aligns with our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! We love candidates who can think on their feet. Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to manufacturing challenges during your interview.
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in joining our 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 is tailored to the Manufacturing Manager role. Highlight your experience in niche manufacturing settings and any relevant engineering qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can contribute to our team. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for what we do at Hitachi Rail.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We’re looking for hands-on problem solvers who thrive in complex environments, so let us know how you’ve made an impact!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you can explore more about our company culture and values while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hitachi
✨Know Your Manufacturing Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of manufacturing processes, especially in high-precision environments. Be ready to discuss specific methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, as well as how you've applied them in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams through change and continuous improvement. Think about times when you’ve successfully developed team capabilities or resolved conflicts, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with Hitachi Rail's mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, especially in terms of innovation and collaboration.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their current projects, challenges they face in manufacturing, or how they implement new technologies. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest.
