Kentec Electronics Ltd, during the last 40 years, has expanded into a major worldwide manufacturer of independent fire control panels. Over time, the Kentec brand has become known for its top-quality products, outstanding service, and exceptional support. Headquartered in Dartford, Kent, Kentec has established itself as a global leader, supplying control equipment to more than 90 countries across the world in multiple languages.
Job Purpose
To support the Factory Manager in overseeing daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets, quality standards, safety requirements, and efficiency goals are consistently met. The role involves supervision of staff, process improvement, and coordination across departments.
Key Responsibilities
- Production & Operations
- Assist in planning, coordinating, and monitoring daily production activities
- Ensure production targets, KPIs, and delivery schedules are achieved
- Monitor workflow, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements
- Support process optimisation and lean manufacturing initiatives
- Team Management
- Supervise production staff, team leaders, and shift supervisors
- Support recruitment, training, and development of factory personnel
- Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback
- Promote a positive, high-performance work culture
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all health & safety regulations and company policies
- Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and toolbox talks
- Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions
- Quality Control
- Work closely with the Quality team to maintain product standards
- Ensure adherence to quality systems (e.g. ISO standards where applicable)
- Support root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions
- Maintenance & Equipment
- Assist with planning preventive maintenance schedules
- Ensure machinery is operating efficiently and downtime is minimised
- Liaise with engineering/maintenance teams for repairs and upgrades
- Continuous Improvement
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, 5S)
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and safety
- Support implementation of new systems, processes, and technologies
Skills & Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving ability
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes
- Data-driven decision-making and analytical skills
- Effective communication across all levels
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Qualifications & Experience
- 5 years manufacturing / Production lines experience
- Previous supervisory or team leadership experience
- Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Production output vs target
- Quality defect rates
- Health & safety metrics (incident rates)
- Equipment downtime / OEE
- Labour productivity and efficiency
- Cost control and waste reduction
Working Conditions
- Based in a factory/manufacturing environment
- May require shift work, overtime, or weekend support
- Exposure to noise, machinery, and industrial conditions
Reporting Line
- Reports to: Factory Manager
- Direct Reports: Supervisors / Team Leaders
Career Progression
- Factory Manager
Job Specifics
- Working hours: Monday-Thursday: 08:00-16:30, Friday: 08:00-15:30
- 24 days holiday, in addition to bank holidays, increasing with the years of service.
- Employee Assistance Programme (Wisdom)
- Unlimited access to 24/7 GP and wellbeing experts (Metlife)
- Support for Loved Ones during difficult times (Everest)
- Financial well-being scheme (Salary Finance)
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Enhanced workplace pension
- Enhanced parental leave
- Free Mental Health First Aid courses (M.H.F.A.)
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to work scheme
- Internal Trainings
- Company Events
- Long Service Awards
- Employee benefits, discounts and perks (Kencheck)
- Volunteer with a charity of your choice for a day each year
Assistant Factory Manager in Hawley employer: Hochiki Group
Kentec Electronics Ltd. is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and reliability in a dynamic manufacturing environment. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth while working with cutting-edge technology in Dartford. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on employee well-being, Kentec provides a rewarding workplace for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
