Head of Manufacturing (Site-based)
About Us: A leading FMCG manufacturing business in Chelmsford with strong financial backing and ambitious ownership entering an exciting new phase of growth and looking to appoint this pivotal role to the senior leadership team.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Head of Manufacturing to lead and shape our operational strategy. This is a senior leadership position with responsibility across Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement (CI), Engineering, and Hygiene, while influencing Health & Safety and Quality across the organisation. You will play a pivotal role in delivering safe, efficient, and scalable operations that support our growth ambitions.
Key Responsibilities
Health & Safety
- Partner with the Head of HSE to develop and implement the site HSE strategy.
- Promote a proactive safety culture across Production, Engineering, Hygiene and CI.
- Ensure full compliance with health & safety legislation.
- Lead improvements in HSE performance, including accident reduction and risk management.
- Support investigations and ensure corrective actions are closed out.
- Champion sustainability, wellbeing, and environmental initiatives.
Quality & Food Safety
- Drive an “audit-ready every day” culture aligned with BRC and retailer standards.
- Collaborate with the Head of Technical to deliver the site’s safety strategy.
- Lead GMP and quality processes, working closely with QA teams to eliminate defects.
- Actively participate in and lead customer and regulatory audits.
Service & Delivery
- Oversee production planning to deliver operational targets.
- Align closely with Supply Chain and Logistics to ensure material availability and timely dispatch.
- Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks.
- Lead responses to operational disruptions, ensuring clear communication and direction.
Cost Management
- Own labour, materials and overall site cost performance against budget.
- Develop operational budgets and capital investment plans.
- Lead capital projects to improve safety, quality and efficiency.
- Drive cost control initiatives, including overtime, agency usage and shift optimisation.
- Maintain oversight of engineering spend and performance.
Continuous Improvement
- Lead the development and delivery of the site CI strategy.
- Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to drive efficiency.
- Improve asset utilisation through effective preventive maintenance (PPM).
- Build a culture of continuous improvement at all levels.
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the manufacturing strategy aligned to business growth.
- Lead multi‑functional teams including Manufacturing, Engineering, CI and Hygiene.
- Build and develop high‑performing teams and leadership capability.
- Foster a culture of accountability, engagement and operational excellence.
- Ensure the site is equipped with the right people, systems and processes for future growth.
- Contribute to senior leadership decision‑making and overall business strategy.
Reporting & Stakeholder Engagement
- Deliver regular performance reports (weekly, monthly, annual).
- Represent manufacturing during audits, customer visits and inspections.
About You
We’re looking for a highly capable and driven operational leader who can deliver results in a fast‑paced FMCG environment.
Skills & Experience
- Proven senior leadership experience in food manufacturing or FMCG.
- Strong track record of improving operational performance and efficiency.
- Deep understanding of food safety, quality standards and HSE requirements.
- Commercially aware with strong financial and budget management skills.
- Experience leading capital projects and managing engineering functions (desirable).
- Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to execute operational plans effectively.
- Resilient decision‑maker in fast‑moving, complex environments.
- Excellent leadership and people development skills.
- Strong communicator with influence across all levels—from shop floor to boardroom.
- Data‑driven with strong IT and KPI performance management capability.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a growing, well‑invested business with ambitious plans.
- Play a key leadership role with real influence on company strategy.
- Work with a strong customer base including major UK retailers.
- Lead impactful change in a fast‑evolving and dynamic environment.
Head Of Manufacturing in Chelmsford employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited
At Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and operational excellence within the charity sector. Our hybrid work culture in Heathfield promotes flexibility and collaboration, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills in cloud technology and cyber security. Join us to make a meaningful impact and be part of a team dedicated to driving positive change.
Contact Details:
Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Manufacturing in Chelmsford
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited, 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 Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited 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 Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited, 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 Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited 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.
