At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in advanced manufacturing systems to shape the future of production.
- Company: Join Kohler Mira, a leader in design and innovation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, private medical cover, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to creating better tomorrows.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in manufacturing while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in engineering leadership with automation experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Onsite Cheltenham. Salary up to £70K (subject to skills and experience) + fantastic benefits including company bonuses, car cash allowance, private medical cover and generous pension scheme.
Designing award-winning products for our market-leading brands – Mira Showers, Rada and Recoup - is our lifeblood. We focus on investment; investing in the best technology and resources available and investing in each and every individual. Whether you arrive at our facilities in Cheltenham, Worcester or Hull, have a visit from a Service Engineer or pick up the phone to our Customer Service team, you’ll instantly see that, no matter our department or location, we all share the same cultural values at Kohler Mira.
From day one you’re part of the Kohler Mira community – a collaborative, forward focused team with a shared pride in our work and commitment to delight our customers, develop innovative products and services and inspire our people.
We're looking for an Advance Manufacturing Systems Manager to help shape the future of our manufacturing operations through innovation, technology and continuous improvement. In this role, you’ll be accountable for the effective leadership and management of an entire support function covering the Cheltenham site. Member of the senior leadership team for the Manufacturing function.
Accountable for Advance Manufacturing Systems focused on:
- Supporting the Business Manufacturing Strategy over a 3-year rolling timeline.
- Deliver Senior Leadership focused initiatives and strategic improvements.
- Pro-active compliance and development of auto and manual manufacturing systems that achieve operational capability for Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery and People (SQCDP).
- Achieving and maintaining targeted service levels and strategic improvements.
- Work cross‑functionally with NPI, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Production teams.
- Responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing manufacturing system solutions. From manual, low-cost automation to high capital automation.
- Building a high performing, improvement culture through the coaching and development of the team (circa 14 controls and mechanical design associates).
General Responsibilities:
- Responsibility for leading the team in accordance with established policies, procedures and objectives.
- Define and deploy the site automation strategy aligned to manufacturing and CI objectives.
- Identify opportunities for automation across production processes (assembly, test, and material flow).
- Develop and maintain a prioritised automation roadmap (low-cost vs capital).
- Ensure alignment with site productivity, cost reduction, and capability goals.
- Lead automated and assembly projects from concept through design, build, commissioning, and handover.
- Ensure solutions are robust, scalable, and meet defined performance requirements.
- Define equipment specifications, system architecture, and technical standards.
- Manage suppliers and integrators to deliver compliant, high-quality systems.
- Ensure clear ownership and support post-handover.
- Work closely with NPI, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations to integrate equipment into new product introductions.
- Ensure automation solutions support manufacturing readiness, capability, and ramp-up.
- Provide input into process design for DFMA, assembly flows.
- Support early life production to ensure stable and optimised operation.
- Drive improvement in OEE through automation (availability, performance, quality).
- Ensure systems are reliable, maintainable, and supported through lifecycle.
- Embed TPM, diagnostics, and fault-finding capability within systems.
- Support root cause analysis and continuous improvement of automated processes.
- Define and maintain automation standards (PLC, HMI, controls architecture, safety compliance).
- Ensure all systems meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements including delivery and governance of the equipment technical files.
- Support design reviews, buy-off, validation, and acceptance processes.
- Ensure documentation, training, and knowledge transfer are completed.
- Lead, inspire, coach and develop the skills of direct reports.
- Manage reports in line with company standards and policies.
- Build capability in automation technologies across the wider organisation.
- Develop skills matrices and succession plans aligned to future needs.
- Promote a culture of innovation, ownership, and technical excellence.
- Set objectives and monitor performance of direct reports in line with the Kohler Co Maximizing Performance process.
- Ensure appropriate resourcing aligned to project complexity and portfolio demand.
Skills/Requirements:
- Proven competence and previous success in an engineering leadership role, with significant exposure to automation and industry 4.0, typically 8+ years experience within a manufacturing/assembly environment.
- Experience and application of lean principles, manufacturing processes, automation, labour efficiency, capital planning, operations finance, and industrialisation.
- Experience working within gated NPI / NPD frameworks, and knowledge of DFM/A principles.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Ability to assess risk and make balanced decisions under time and cost pressure.
- Confident decision maker with strong delivery focus.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Comfortable operating between strategic intent and hands‑on execution.
- Collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence across functions.
- Bachelor and/or Masters Degree in engineering, operations or related technical field.
We can offer you a lot in return! We empower each associate to #BecomeMoreAtKohler with a competitive total rewards package to support your health and wellbeing, access to career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation. With a genuine commitment to creating better tomorrows, we’re driving meaningful change in our mission to help people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives.
About Us: In the UK, Kohler Mira Ltd. is made up of three market leading brands: Mira Showers, Rada Controls, and Recoup. Where our brands differ in market position, they are equal in their commitment to design, innovation, and providing a single level of quality regardless of price. Kohler Mira is committed to diversity and inclusion to drive our business results and create a better future every day for our diverse associates, consumers, partners, and global communities. As an equal opportunities employer, it is Kohler Mira’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified people in all job classifications without prejudice.
Advance Manufacturing Systems Manager in Cheltenham employer: Kohler Co.
Kohler Mira is an exceptional employer located in Cheltenham, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a competitive benefits package that includes company bonuses. Join a forward-focused team dedicated to creating award-winning products while enjoying a diverse and inclusive workplace that empowers you to #BecomeMoreAtKohler.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Advance Manufacturing Systems Manager in Cheltenham
✨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 Kohler Co., 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Advance Manufacturing Systems Manager in Cheltenham
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 Kohler Co. 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 Kohler Co.
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Kohler Co., 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 Kohler Co. 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.
