At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform a high-performance precision engineering manufacturing site.
- Company: Join a high-growth, privately owned precision engineering manufacturer.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, car allowance, and relocation support.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth and to drive operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by reshaping performance and culture in a key manufacturing operation.
- Qualifications: 10-20 years in engineering/manufacturing with hands-on leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A privately owned, high-growth precision engineering manufacturer seeks an experienced General Manager to lead and transform one of its principal UK manufacturing operations. The company designs and produces complex, high-integrity engineered components for advanced energy, industrial, and performance‑critical applications.
The role is a pivotal operational leadership position, ideal for a hands‑on manufacturing leader who thrives on visible, front‑line engagement, rapid performance improvement, and long‑term transformation.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will take full responsibility for the performance, capability, and culture of a key precision machining and assembly facility. Your leadership will be approximately 75-80% hands‑on and highly visible, focused on driving improvement directly from the shop floor while providing strategic oversight from the front. Your mission will be to:
- Lead by example - be a consistent, visible presence on the shop floor, guiding and supporting teams while setting and enforcing standards.
- Stabilise and transform performance - introduce operational control, clear KPIs, and daily accountability to restore efficiency, quality, and output.
- Rebuild morale and engagement - create a positive, open, and performance‑driven culture where employees understand objectives and take ownership of results.
- Drive cultural and behavioural change - set expectations, improve communication, and instil pride in performance.
- Implement continuous improvement - embed lean manufacturing, structured problem solving, and visual management to raise productivity and reduce waste.
- Optimise planning and workflow - strengthen scheduling, resource management, and cost control.
- Develop leadership capability - mentor supervisors, technical leads, and support functions to create a robust, accountable management team.
- Lay foundations for future investment - once the site is stabilised, prepare and present detailed business cases for capital expenditure and capacity expansion to the CEO and Board.
This is a true turnaround and transformation assignment - a chance to take an underperforming but strategically important site and turn it into a model of efficiency, engagement, and operational excellence.
About You
You are a confident, technically credible manufacturing leader with a proven track record of improving performance, quality, and culture in precision or high‑performance engineering environments. You are at your best on the factory floor - visible, pragmatic, and leading from the front. You understand that transformation comes from clear standards, disciplined execution, and engaged people. You will bring:
- Education: Degree (BEng/MEng/BSc) in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering. Chartered Engineer (CEng) preferred but not essential.
- Experience: 10-20 years in engineering/manufacturing, with at least 5 years in senior operational/site leadership.
- Hands‑on leadership style: 75-80% of your time spent on the shop floor, directly guiding teams, setting priorities, and driving measurable results.
- Transformation track record: Proven ability to stabilise, re‑energise, and elevate underperforming manufacturing operations through disciplined processes, KPIs, and leadership.
- Technical grounding: Strong background in CNC machining, small‑batch, or precision manufacturing.
- Change management skills: Able to introduce structure, coach teams, and hold people accountable while building trust and engagement.
- Commercial and analytical skills: Experience managing budgets, cost‑per‑part, and productivity metrics. Capable of preparing CapEx proposals for process improvement and technology investment.
- Continuous improvement expertise: Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent toolkit, with a record of delivering tangible efficiency and quality gains.
- Sector experience: Precision engineering, energy, aerospace, automotive, defence, or other high‑performance industrial sectors.
- Personal impact: Decisive, calm under pressure, authentic, and unafraid to challenge legacy thinking.
The Rewards
- Bonus: up to 25% linked to performance and leadership KPIs
- Car Allowance: included in base; company also offers a salary‑sacrifice electric‑vehicle scheme
- Relocation Support: up to £10,000 (HMRC guideline)
This is a rare opportunity to make a measurable difference within a well‑funded, high‑growth precision manufacturer. You'll have the authority to reshape performance from the ground up, deliver cultural renewal, and then lead the site into its next phase of investment and expansion.
How to Apply
All enquiries and applications are handled in strict confidence by Martin Veasey Talent Solutions. Due to the confidential nature of this appointment, NDAs will be required at shortlist stage.
General Manager - High Performance Precision Engineering in England employer: Martin Veasey Talent Solutions
Join a leading global group in the cement manufacturing industry, where you will have the opportunity to drive transformational change and lead a major plant in the Midlands. With a strong focus on decarbonisation, automation, and digital engineering, our company fosters a culture of safety and operational excellence while providing competitive compensation, relocation assistance, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. As part of a senior leadership team, you will be empowered to build and mentor high-performing teams, making a meaningful impact in a dynamic and supportive work environment.
Contact Details:
Martin Veasey Talent Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager - High Performance Precision Engineering in England
✨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 Martin Veasey Talent Solutions, 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 General Manager - High Performance Precision Engineering in England
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 Martin Veasey Talent Solutions 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 Martin Veasey Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Martin Veasey Talent Solutions, 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 Martin Veasey Talent Solutions 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.
