Head of Manufacturing Role based in Birkenhead. Site Leadership role reporting into the Board. Client Details Our client is a well established manufacturing company based in the Birkenhead Description We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Manufacturing to lead the operational performance of our busy manufacturing plant, reporting to the Managing Director. This is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operational activities, ensuring optimal productivity, health and safety, quality, and continuous improvement across the site. · Lead, manage, and continuously improve all plant operations. · Drive performance, productivity, and quality in line with business KPIs. · Manage a diverse workforce including permanent production operators and agency staff. · Ensure operational alignment with engineering, quality, technical, and finance functions. · Introduce and drive a culture of lean six sigma throughout the business · Champion Lean Six Sigma methodologies and embed continuous improvement culture. · Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability and engagement. · Oversee key HR processes including annual performance reviews, capability assessments, disciplinary and grievance matters. · Ensure all operations comply with health, safety, and environmental standards. · Monitor operational budgets, reporting on performance and delivering cost efficiencies, and taking appropriate action where required. · Work with the Engineering team to deliver large-scale improvement projects. · Be able to naturally engage with a range of personnel and support all employee engagement initiatives. · Effectively manage conflicting priorities on a daily basis, ensuring maximum machine utilisation. Profile To be successful in this fast-paced role, successful candidates must have proven experience in a senior leadership role and be able to demonstrate a background of continuous improvement, successful culture change and implementation of employee engagement strategies, whilst working in conjunction with maximising our production efficiencies. You will collaborate closely with our technical, engineering, finance, and quality teams to drive efficiency and excellence across all areas of production. This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who must possess a strong engineering background and a passion for operational improvement. Having worked in the chemicals industry would be advantageous but not essential; you must be in a permanent industrial manufacturing leadership role · A track record of experience in an operations management role within a manufacturing environment. · Extensive experience in people management including, motivation, coaching and people development skills · Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic and constantly changing environment. · Strong background in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical) - this is really important for this role and the client expects qualifications to back it up so please bear this in mind before applying. · Demonstrable leadership experience with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively. · Hands-on experience working with both permanent and temporary/agency production staff. · Proficient in Lean Six Sigma with a strong track record of driving continuous improvement initiatives. · Experience managing HR-related processes including performance management, capability reviews, and disciplinary/grievance handling. · Strong communicator with excellent organizational and decision-making skills. · Previous experience working as part of a Senior Leadership Team Job Offer Circa £80,000 plus bonus and benefits. Please apply with your CV online if you wish to be considered
Head of Manufacturing in Birkenhead employer: Michael Page
ASDA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Leeds. With a strong commitment to employee growth, ASDA provides numerous opportunities for professional development and advancement, alongside competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an attractive workplace for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in one of the UK's leading retail brands.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Manufacturing in Birkenhead
✨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 Michael Page, 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 Michael Page 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 Michael Page
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Michael Page, 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 Michael Page 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.
