At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise factory operations while developing your team in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a leading UK manufacturer known for its innovative products and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 4-day work week, and long-term career progression.
- Other info: Be part of a fast-paced environment with opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on production processes and lead a dynamic team on the shop floor.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing operations and strong leadership skills are essential.
Are you a hands-on Factory Operations Manager who leads from the shop floor rather than behind a desk? Do you enjoy solving production challenges, improving manufacturing processes and developing teams within a fast-paced assembly environment? If so, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
We're recruiting for a Factory Operations Manager on behalf of one of the UK's leading specialist manufacturers, a well-established business that designs and builds its own products in-house. This isn't an office-based management role. They're looking for someone who is visible on the factory floor, works alongside their Supervisors, removes production bottlenecks and keeps the operation running efficiently every day.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Production Director, you'll oversee the entire manufacturing operation, ensuring products move efficiently from Goods In through to Despatch. You'll lead a team of Supervisors across fabrication, welding, assembly, stores and dispatch, driving productivity, quality and continuous improvement while maintaining a safe and organised manufacturing environment.
Benefits:
- £55,000 - £60,000 DOE
- Company pension
- 4-day working week (Monday - Thursday)
- Hours 6.40am to 16:45pm
- 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
- Free on-site parking
- Long-term career progression into senior operational leadership
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day running of the manufacturing operation from Goods In through to Despatch.
- Manage and develop Production Supervisors across multiple departments.
- Ensure production plans are delivered safely, efficiently and on time.
- Drive continuous product flow and remove production bottlenecks.
- Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives, including 3S, visual management and continuous improvement projects.
- Monitor KPIs including productivity, quality, labour efficiency and on-time delivery.
- Work closely with Quality, Planning and Engineering teams to improve manufacturing performance.
- Coach and develop production teams while promoting accountability and high performance.
- Maintain high standards of health, safety and housekeeping throughout the factory.
- Be a visible, hands-on leader with a strong presence on the shop floor.
We're Looking For
We're keen to speak with experienced Factory, Production or Manufacturing Operations Managers who have worked within small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses where they've had broad operational responsibility.
You’ll ideally have experience within:
- Assembly manufacturing (essential)
- Fabrication and welding environments (highly desirable)
- Automotive, engineering or OEM manufacturing
- Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement
- Managing Supervisors and large production teams
- TAKT or flow-based manufacturing environments
Most importantly, you'll be a practical leader who enjoys being on the factory floor rather than sat behind a desk. Apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Factory Operations Manager in Smethwick
✨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 Options Resourcing Ltd, 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 Factory Operations Manager in Smethwick
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 Options Resourcing Ltd 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 Options Resourcing Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Options Resourcing Ltd, 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 Options Resourcing Ltd 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.
