About The Role
We're looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking Head of Automation to join our Food to Go division and play a pivotal role in transforming the way we operate across our manufacturing sites. Working at the forefront of innovation, you'll lead major automation and transformation programmes that drive efficiency, increase capacity, enhance operational performance and support the future growth of the business.
This is a highly visible leadership role, partnering with senior stakeholders across Operations, IT, Finance, Procurement, Manufacturing Excellence and Site Leadership Teams to identify, develop and deliver automation solutions that create lasting business value.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading large-scale automation and transformational projects across the Food to Go category.
- Identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, productivity and operational performance through automation initiatives.
- Developing detailed project plans, business cases, milestones, budgets and resource requirements.
- Managing project delivery from concept through to implementation, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive successful adoption of new technologies and systems.
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislative, regulatory and operational requirements throughout project delivery.
- Embedding sustainability considerations into automation and capital investment decisions.
Multi-site role covering Melton Foods, Manton Wood and Bradgate Bakery. Regular travel between sites is required.
About You
We believe success comes from collaboration and diverse perspectives. At Samworth Brothers, we value team players who are driven to achieve great results together. You’ll bring the following skills and experience:
- Extensive experience leading automation, engineering, capital investment or transformation projects.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior leadership level.
- Excellent commercial awareness and the ability to balance operational performance with business objectives.
- Outstanding programme and project management capability.
- The ability to lead change and engage teams through transformation.
- A collaborative approach and a passion for continuous improvement.
- Strong decision-making skills and the confidence to challenge constructively when required
What We Offer
- Company pension scheme
- Access to health and well-being support, such as healthcare, optical and dental discounts
- Employee discount scheme
- Experience annual pay reviewsProfit related pay
- Opportunity for extended leave
- Free on-site parking
- Unlock your potential through training and growth opportunities
About Us
Samworth Brothers is a fourth-generation family business, trusted by many of the UK’s best-known retailers to produce high-quality own-label products. Alongside these, we’re proud to craft and deliver our own iconic brands, including Ginsters, Soreen, Higgidy, Dickinson & Morris, Urban Eat, West Cornwall Pasty Company, and Walker & Son.
With over 10,000 talented colleagues working across our modern, well-invested food manufacturing sites nationwide, we’re committed to excellence in everything we do—from the food we make to the careers we build.
At Samworth Brothers, you’re more than just an employee, you are part of our strong family culture. Our collaborative approach and strong team spirit help us support one another and achieve great things together. As part of a well-established group, we offer stability, opportunity, and a place where you can truly thrive.
Ready to make a difference? Join us and be part of something special!
We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunities employer making diversity and inclusion a core part of everything we do. We also actively welcome applications from neurodivergent individuals and are committed to a recruitment process that’s fair, respectful, and free from bias. If you need any adaptations to the application or interview process, please do let us know.
Samworth Brothers do not engage with unlicensed gangmasters or third parties. Samworth Brothers will NEVER ask you for money in order to provide you with employment. If you are in any doubt, please contact an official Samworth Brothers representative.
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Head of Automation in Leicester employer: Samworth Brothers
At Samworth Brothers, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you have ample opportunities for growth within the finance team. Located in a vibrant area, we offer a supportive environment where your contributions are valued, making this role not just a job, but a meaningful career path.
