We are looking for an experienced Manufacturing Team Leader to join a growing manufacturing operation in Surrey.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced production professional with a background in food manufacturing, brewing, fermentation, beverage production, dairy, biotechnology or other process manufacturing environments.
The successful candidate will lead a small manufacturing team and play an important role in day-to-day production, process improvement and the continued development of manufacturing operations.
Pharmaceutical experience is not required.
The Role
As Manufacturing Team Leader, you will provide day-to-day leadership to a small production team, ensuring manufacturing activities are completed safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards.
You will be a hands‑on leader, supporting production activities while providing direction, technical guidance and support to the wider team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise a small team of up to 2-3 Manufacturing Operators
- Coordinate daily production activities and allocate work
- Ensure manufacturing schedules and production targets are achieved
- Operate and oversee manufacturing and process equipment
- Support fermentation, media preparation and manufacturing activities
- Ensure equipment is prepared, operated and cleaned correctly
- Monitor production performance, quality and process compliance
- Ensure production records and documentation are completed accurately
- Provide technical guidance and support to team members
- Train, coach and develop less experienced manufacturing personnel
- Identify and resolve day‑to‑day operational issues
- Support equipment troubleshooting and process investigations
- Maintain high standards of health and safety, hygiene and contamination control
- Ensure procedures and quality standards are followed
- Support GMP and other relevant manufacturing requirements
- Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement
- Promote a positive culture of teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
- Minimum 3 years' manufacturing experience
- Previous experience as a Team Leader, Supervisor or Senior Operator
- Strong background in production or process manufacturing
- Experience within food, brewing, fermentation, beverage, dairy, biotechnology or similar environments
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes and process control
- Strong health and safety awareness
- Experience working to quality systems and documented procedures
- Proven leadership and communication skills
- Experience supporting, training or mentoring a small team
- Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- A hands‑on and proactive approach to manufacturing
- Flexibility to work evenings, nights and weekends
What We Offer
- Up to £25 per hour, depending on experience
- Initial 3-month fixed-term contract
- Potential for extension or permanent opportunities
- Opportunity to develop your leadership experience within a regulated manufacturing environment
- Hands‑on role with genuine responsibility
- Support and training provided
If you're an experienced Manufacturing Team Leader, Production Supervisor or Senior Production Operator looking for your next opportunity, we'd like to hear from you.
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Manufacturing Team Leader in East Horsley employer: KFM Recuitment
KFM is an excellent employer located just a short walk from the centre of Hull, offering a stable work environment with opportunities for permanent positions. Employees enjoy a supportive work culture with Monday to Friday shifts, competitive pay, and the potential for overtime, all while being part of a team that values safety and organisation. With a focus on employee growth and development, KFM provides a rewarding experience for those looking to advance their careers in the warehouse sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Team Leader in East Horsley
✨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 KFM Recuitment, 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 KFM Recuitment 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 KFM Recuitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with KFM Recuitment, 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 KFM Recuitment 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.
