Head of Manufacturing in Essex, Springfield

Head of Manufacturing UK (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 initiativesQuality & 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 auditsService & 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 directionCost 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 performanceContinuous 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 levelsStrategic 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 strategyReporting & Stakeholder Engagement Deliver regular performance reports (weekly, monthly, annual) Represent manufacturing during audits, customer visits and inspectionsAbout 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 capabilityWhy 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 environmentApply Now If you’re an experienced manufacturing leader ready to make a significant impact, we’d love to hear from you