At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations, manage teams, and ensure quality in manufacturing.
- Company: Established window hardware manufacturer with a strong UK presence.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, and supportive transition.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a stable company while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management within manufacturing and team leadership.
We are a specialist window manufacturing hardware company with a strong UK presence and two established overseas facilities. Our Gloucestershire site is the heart of our UK operation, and we are now seeking a General Manager to lead day-to-day activities, support our teams, and ensure operational excellence.
You will report directly to the company owner and managing director working closely with the outgoing manager who is retiring, ensuring a smooth, well-supported transition.
This role is ideal for an experienced leader looking for a full or part time position who brings a career's depth of operational management across manufacturing, procurement, logistics, cost control, quality, and continuous improvement. It offers genuine flexibility: 3, 4, or 5 days per week, tailored to the individual’s lifestyle, experience, and preferred working rhythm.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational leadership – Oversee daily activities across production, procurement, logistics, and administration; a strong understanding of Microsoft systems is important (not an IT expert) just excel and word capable.
- Team management – The General Manager will lead and support the Gloucestershire team, ensuring strong communication and performance.
- Manufacturing oversight – Maintain output, efficiency, and quality across hardware production.
- Cost management – Monitor budgets, spending, and operational costs.
- Quality & compliance – The General Manager will uphold quality standards and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Cross-site coordination – Liaise with overseas facilities to ensure alignment and consistency.
- Strategic support – Work closely with the Owner/MD on operational priorities and long-term planning.
About You
You will be a confident, steady, and experienced leader with broad operational exposure and a practical understanding of a manufacturing facility, large office environment, or maybe a logistics facility.
Essential Experience
- Senior operational management within manufacturing (ideally window hardware, fenestration, or related sectors).
- The General Manager will have a strong knowledge of procurement, production planning, logistics, and administration.
- Experience managing budgets, cost structures, and performance metrics.
- A track record of leading teams and developing people.
- Familiarity with quality systems and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Comfortable working closely with business owners and senior leadership.
What We Offer
- Flexible working pattern: 3, 4, or 5 days per week.
- Supportive handover from the retiring manager.
- Autonomy to shape and lead the UK operation.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- A stable, long-established business with international reach.
This position would really suit an experienced leader or manager that is looking for a step down from a senior position or someone that has the ability to help shape the future of this privately owned company. Do please send a CV in the strictest confidence.
General Manager in Cirencester employer: Ten Human Resources
Join a leading manufacturer of specialist aluminium windows, doors, and glazing products, where your expertise in sales and the fenestration industry will be valued and nurtured. With a strong focus on employee growth and a dynamic work culture, this role offers you the chance to shape the internal sales department while collaborating closely with the MD to drive success. Located in the UK, this position not only promises career advancement but also the opportunity to work with innovative products that stand out in the market.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in Cirencester
✨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 Ten Human Resources, 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 General Manager in Cirencester
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 Ten Human Resources 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 Ten Human Resources
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Ten Human Resources, 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 Ten Human Resources 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.
