General Manager - DHX Heckmondwike

DHX is the hydraulic engineering arm of Kinetic Solutions Group, delivering high-performance fluid power systems across critical sectors including Renewable Energy, Defence, and Infrastructure. Known for robust manufacturing, advanced technical capabilities, and precision engineering, DHX supports high-integrity, mission-critical applications worldwide. We are now seeking a General Manager to play a pivotal role in the success of DHX. Acting as the right-hand person to the Business Unit (BU) Director, you will take ownership of the day-to-day running of the unit – ensuring smooth operations, excellent delivery, and continued growth.

Purpose of the Role

The General Manager will be responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of the business unit’s activities, including operations, engineering, production, sales, business development, and people management to ensure continuity, focus, and accountability within the teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership – Oversee day-to-day running of the business unit, ensuring projects and production schedules are delivered to time, quality, and budget.
• Sales & Business Development – Support growth by managing client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and helping to secure and deliver new contracts.
• People Leadership – Providing coaching, clear objectives, and performance management to develop a high-performing culture across a team of around 20 people.
• Financial Performance – Monitor and report on budgets, forecasts, and financial performance, supporting the BU Director in achieving the BU’s £5m+ turnover and profit targets.
• Continuous Improvement – Drive improvements in processes, systems, and ways of working to improve efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.
• Customer & Stakeholder Management – Ensure excellent client service, acting as a key point of contact for customers and internal stakeholders.
• Compliance & Safety – Ensure all operations are conducted in line with regulatory, quality, and HSE standards relevant to defence, nuclear, and engineering environments.
• Deputising – Represent the BU Director when required, maintaining leadership presence and accountability.

About You

We are looking for a commercially aware, hands-on leader with proven experience in operations management within engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical sector.

Essential skills & experience

• Proven track record in managing operations and production within an engineering/manufacturing environment.
• Experience in sales and/or business development, with ability to manage client relationships and contribute to growth.
• Strong people management skills – experience leading teams, managing performance, and developing staff.
• Commercial awareness, with experience managing budgets, forecasting, and contributing to financial performance.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills, with ability to balance strategic focus and day-to-day detail.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience within hydraulics, defence, nuclear, or precision engineering sectors.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and HSE standards relevant to engineering.
• Degree or equivalent qualification in engineering, operations management, or business.

Location: Heckmondwike

Travel: Required to customer sites across the UK and occasionally overseas.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary: A competitive salary aligned with your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the business.
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, development, and support for professional qualifications, including opportunities for career progression.
• Annual Leave: Enjoy 25 days of holiday per year, plus 8 statutory bank holidays.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 additional days of holiday each year to suit your personal needs.
• Pension Scheme: Employer pension contributions to help secure your financial future.
• BUPA Health Scheme: Access private healthcare through our comprehensive BUPA Health Scheme.
• Paycare Cash Plan (Level 2): Get money back on everyday healthcare costs with our Level 2 Paycare Cash Plan.