Manufacturing Manager
Join a global Tier 1 automotive business where your decisions drive world-class vehicle launches.
You'll take responsibility for the performance, efficiency and continuous improvement of the manufacturing function.
This is a hands‑on leadership role combining production management, people leadership, operational performance and continuous improvement.
Location: Witney, Oxfordshire (Monday–Thursday work schedule, with occasional flexibility required depending on operational and customer needs).
Company: A trusted partner to the world’s most iconic automotive brands, including Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, Bentley, BMW, and the VW Group, that specializes in precision‑engineered labels to complex, innovative illuminated assemblies.
What will you be doing?
- Take overall responsibility for manufacturing performance: drive achievement of agreed KPIs and departmental performance targets.
- Ensure manufacturing output, efficiency and quality standards are consistently achieved and improved.
- Plan and coordinate manufacturing activities to meet customer expectations for On Time and In Full (OTIF) delivery.
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce lead times and optimise manufacturing costs.
- Champion Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives across the manufacturing area.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and the implementation of new products and processes within manufacturing.
- Work closely with the Maintenance team to ensure that site maintenance activities are effectively planned, controlled and completed.
- Ensure manufacturing operates in line with relevant Quality and Environmental Management Systems, including IATF 16949 and ISO 14001.
- Maintain a strong focus on Health & Safety and ensure that relevant systems, including risk assessments and other safety controls, are maintained and followed.
- Lead, motivate, coach and develop team members.
What will help you get the job done?
- Proven experience in manufacturing or production management (the automotive sector would be highly desirable, however we are also open to strong manufacturing leaders from other highly regulated or technically demanding manufacturing environments).
- A strong understanding of manufacturing KPIs, productivity, quality and operational efficiency.
- Experience driving Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement initiatives.
- Experience working cross‑functionally with areas such as Quality, Maintenance, Manufacturing Engineering and Supply Chain / MP&L.
- Experience with New Product Introduction or manufacturing process development would be an advantage.
- Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder‑management skills.
- A hands‑on, pragmatic and improvement‑oriented approach.
Why is it worth it?
- Join an established manufacturing operation where you will have a visible impact on production performance, people development and continuous improvement.
- Work directly with globally recognised automotive brands on projects that reach series production.
- Broaden your exposure beyond manufacturing and develop towards wider operational or plant leadership responsibilities in the future.
- Be part of a collaborative, non‑corporate organization where autonomy, accountability and practical ideas matter.
- Company pension, 4 days week and 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays.
Hello! I’m Anna and I am responsible for this recruitment process. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. I will be happy to meet you!
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Manager in Witney
✨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 HR Contact S.C., 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!
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 HR Contact S.C. 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 HR Contact S.C.
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with HR Contact S.C., 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 HR Contact S.C. 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.
