Join The Whittan Group
The Whittan Group is the largest manufacturer of steel storage products in the United Kingdom. Operating through a number of market-leading brands, we design, manufacture and install storage solutions for commercial and industrial environments across the UK and Europe.
Milton Keynes
Production
Full time
Permanent
Production Team Leader
Location – Milton Keynes
Hours – 40 per week
Monday – Thursday 06:00 – 16:30
Join The Whittan Group
The Whittan Group is the largest manufacturer of steel storage products in the United Kingdom. Operating through a number of market-leading brands, we design, manufacture and install storage solutions for commercial and industrial environments across the UK and Europe.
We are currently seeking an experienced and driven Production Team Leader to join our Operations team. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on leader who is passionate about safety, quality, people development, and operational excellence.
About The Role
Reporting to the Production Manager, you will be responsible for leading a team of 10-20 production operatives, ensuring the safe, efficient, and high‑quality manufacture of our products. You will play a key role in achieving production targets, maintaining quality standards, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and developing a highly skilled and engaged workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Production Management
- Organise and supervise daily production activities to meet manufacturing schedules.
- Ensure production targets and KPIs are achieved safely and efficiently.
- Allocate labour and resources effectively across production lines.
- Monitor workflow, resolve operational issues, and minimise downtime.
- Support the timely delivery of customer orders.
Team Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and develop a team of production operatives.
- Conduct daily team briefings and communicate business objectives.
- Monitor performance and provide coaching and support.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and training activities.
- Manage attendance, holidays, probation reviews, and employee conduct in line with company policies.
Health & Safety
- Promote a positive health and safety culture throughout the operation.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures and UK health and safety legislation.
- Conduct workplace inspections and risk assessments.
- Investigate accidents, near misses, and unsafe practices, implementing corrective actions.
- Ensure appropriate PPE is worn and maintained.
Quality & Continuous Improvement
- Ensure products are manufactured to the highest quality standards.
- Support corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Drive waste reduction and process efficiency improvements.
- Support Lean Manufacturing and 5S activities.
Training & Development
- Identify training needs and support employee development.
- Deliver coaching and mentoring to team members.
- Maintain training records and skills matrices.
- Support cross-training and succession planning activities.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Essential
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Proven experience leading or supervising production teams.
- Strong knowledge of health and safety requirements within manufacturing.
- Excellent organisational and planning skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to solve problems and make decisions under pressure.
- Competent in Microsoft Office and production reporting systems
Desirable
- Experience within pallet racking, steel fabrication, or metal manufacturing.
- Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.
- IOSH Managing Safely qualification.
- FLT Licence.
- Ability to read engineering drawings.
- Knowledge of automated manufacturing equipment and systems.
Why Join The Whittan Group?
- Be part of the UK's leading manufacturer of steel storage solutions.
- Work within a supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Play a key role in driving operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Develop your leadership skills and advance your career within a growing organisation.
- Join a business committed to safety, quality, and employee development.
Production Team Leader in Milton Keynes employer: The Whittan Group
The Whittan Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Telford where innovation meets collaboration. As the UK's largest manufacturer of steel storage products, we provide our Inside Sales Representatives with extensive training and growth opportunities, fostering a culture that values teamwork and customer satisfaction. With a commitment to equality and a focus on professional development, we ensure that every employee can thrive while contributing to our mission of delivering outstanding storage solutions across the UK and Europe.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Team Leader in Milton Keynes
✨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 The Whittan Group, 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!
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 The Whittan Group 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 The Whittan Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with The Whittan Group, 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 The Whittan Group 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.