At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to drive operational improvements and enhance production efficiency.
- Company: Respected FMCG manufacturing business with a commitment to quality and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive leadership, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a stable environment while shaping future improvements.
- Qualifications: Experience in production management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
Are you a hands-on Production Manager who enjoys improving performance, developing people and driving meaningful operational change? Our client is a well-established, highly respected FMCG manufacturing business with a long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service. As part of ongoing growth plans, they are seeking an experienced Production Manager to help shape the next phase of operational development.
This is an opportunity to join a stable business with an experienced workforce and a leadership team genuinely committed to investing in improvements, efficiency initiatives and future growth.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Head of Operations, you will lead a production operation of approximately 40 employees, including two Shift Managers and agency labour as required. While the operation performs well, there is a clear opportunity for an experienced manufacturing professional to identify efficiencies, improve line performance, reduce waste, enhance labour utilisation and help introduce a more structured approach to continuous improvement. You will play a key role in developing frontline leadership capability while supporting future automation and business growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive improvements in OEE, productivity and line performance
- Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives
- Improve labour utilisation and operational efficiency
- Reduce waste and improve manufacturing performance
- Lead Continuous Improvement projects
- Update and improve standard operating procedures and work instructions
- Support future automation initiatives
- Coach and develop Shift Managers and production teams
- Ensure compliance with food safety, quality and health & safety standards
- Lead customer and supplier audits when required
About You
We are interested in speaking with candidates who possess:
- Production Management experience within food or beverage manufacturing
- Strong knowledge of OEE, productivity and operational KPIs
- Experience delivering measurable cost savings and efficiency improvements
- Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience
- Strong leadership and coaching capabilities
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- A visible, hands-on management style
This role could suit an ambitious Production Manager seeking broader responsibility or a highly experienced manufacturing professional looking to make a significant impact within a growing business.
What's in it for You?
- Genuine opportunity to influence operational strategy
- Supportive and approachable leadership team
- Stable and profitable business
- Opportunity to shape future improvements and automation projects
- Leadership succession and mentoring opportunities
- High visibility role with real business impact
Production Manager in Chelmsford employer: SC4 Recruitment Limited
Join a vibrant and innovative team in Chelmsford, Essex, where your digital marketing skills will thrive in a supportive environment that values creativity and analytical thinking. With a flexible work-from-home policy and opportunities for professional growth, you'll be empowered to take charge of exciting marketing campaigns while enjoying a collaborative culture that encourages new ideas and continuous learning. This is not just a job; it's a chance to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic organisation committed to your success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager in Chelmsford
✨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 SC4 Recruitment 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager in Chelmsford
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 SC4 Recruitment 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 SC4 Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with SC4 Recruitment 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 SC4 Recruitment 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.
