At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and drive continuous improvement.
- Company: Join Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual leave, pension, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to sustainability and employee well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a key leadership role with autonomy and growth potential.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join Our Team at Smurfit Westrock! Are you searching for a workplace that values you and your growth? At Smurfit Westrock, we’re committed to sustainability, employee well-being, and personal development.
About Us: We are a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging. Our focus is on the health and safety of our employees, the well-being of our communities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. We support our team members to reach their full potential in an inclusive environment that values diversity.
The Role: Supervisor at our Leeds Plant.
The Opportunity: Are you a high-energy manufacturing leader who thrives on the shop floor? We are looking for a Plant Supervisor who doesn’t just manage processes but drives them. Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, you will be the engine room of our Leeds operation—a “go-getter” with the autonomy to make decisions, solve complex problems, and lead a high-performing team without being micro-managed. If you are results-driven, and ready to get your teeth into a role where you can truly make your mark, we want to hear from you.
The Role:
- Lead from the Front: Manage daily production and planning, to ensure we hit targets safely, on time, and at world-class quality.
- Drive Continuous Improvement: Use your knowledge of Lean/Kaizen/5S to challenge the status quo and find smarter, faster ways of working.
- Empower the Team: Lead and develop Team Leaders and Operatives, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
- Be the Fixer: Liaise between Sales, Design & Operations to resolve production bottlenecks and ensure our customers & internal team work with ease at the forefront.
- Own the Environment: Be the champion for Health & Safety, ensuring our site isn’t just compliant, but a gold standard for the industry.
Skills & Attributes: We need a proactive leader who brings:
- Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a track record of leading teams to success.
- Ability to prioritize under pressure and solve problems before they reach the Plant Manager’s desk.
- Familiarity with modern manufacturing tools (KAIZEN, SMED, 5S) and a “right first time” mindset.
- Ability to influence people at all levels—from the shop floor to senior management team.
Why Leeds & Chesterfield? You’ll be joining a global leader at Smurfit Westrock, working in a site that values visual management, innovation, and direct action. This isn’t just a “supervisory” job—it’s a key leadership position where your impact will be seen every single day.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary & benefits, including annual leave, pension, and a Cycle to Work scheme.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- 24/7 confidential support for you and your family.
- Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria (Disability Confident Employer).
Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us build a sustainable future together. Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria. We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their sex; religious or similar philosophical belief; political opinion; race; age; sexual orientation; or, whether they are married or are in a civil partnership; or, whether they are disabled; or whether they have undergone, are undergoing or intend to undergo gender reassignment. We practice equality of opportunity in employment and select the best person for the job.
Supervisor – Pudsey, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, West Yorkshire, LS28 8HL employer: Recruit4Mum
At Smurfit Westrock, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and growth in a dynamic manufacturing environment. Our Leeds site offers a culture of innovation and inclusivity, where you can lead a high-performing team while benefiting from competitive salaries, ongoing training, and a commitment to sustainability. Join us to make a meaningful impact every day in a role that empowers you to drive continuous improvement and champion health and safety.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supervisor – Pudsey, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, West Yorkshire, LS28 8HL
✨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 Recruit4Mum, 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 Supervisor – Pudsey, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, West Yorkshire, LS28 8HL
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 Recruit4Mum 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 Recruit4Mum
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Recruit4Mum, 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 Recruit4Mum 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.
