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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production activities and drive efficiency in a growing manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established UK manufacturing business focused on growth and modernisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, profit share, early Friday finish, and supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Shape and scale a manufacturing function while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in production management and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a values-led business with pride in UK manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 52000 £ per year.
I am recruiting on behalf of an established UK manufacturing business entering a key phase of growth and operational modernisation. This is a pivotal role for an experienced Production Manager to take full ownership of the manufacturing function and drive performance, efficiency and scalability.
The Role
Reporting into the Head of Operations, you will act as the link between strategic leadership and shop-floor execution. You will own end-to-end production across a 17,000 sq ft facility, with a clear mandate to improve output, margins and operational discipline, while supporting the transition to a data-led, high-performance environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all day-to-day production activity, delivering against cost, quality and OTIF targets.
- Own the full manufacturing process from laminate bonding through CNC cutting, assembly and despatch.
- Align production planning with demand, capacity and labour within a single-shift model.
- Track and improve KPIs including productivity, downtime, waste and labour efficiency.
- Champion lean manufacturing and continuous improvement to remove waste and improve flow.
- Lead, coach and develop the production team, building capability and accountability.
- Own maintenance planning, stock control and machinery reliability.
- Ensure high standards of quality, health & safety and compliance.
- Drive cost control and support investment and automation decisions with data.
About You
Essential
- Proven experience in a Production / Manufacturing Manager role.
- Strong people leadership and operational delivery track record.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
- Confident with production planning, KPIs, maintenance and stock control.
- Hands-on, data-driven and commercially minded.
Desirable
- Experience in joinery, panel processing or CNC-led environments.
- IOSH / NEBOSH, ERP or MRP system experience.
- Background in a growth-phase SME.
What’s On Offer
- £45,000 - £60,000 basic profit share.
- Monday-Friday role (early Friday finish).
- Opportunity to shape and scale a manufacturing function.
- Supportive, values-led business with pride in UK manufacturing.
Production Manager - Manufacturing in Norfolk employer: Universal Business Team
Contact Detail:
Universal Business Team Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager - Manufacturing in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Production Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on lean manufacturing principles and KPIs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved production processes in the past. This will show potential employers that you’re not just talk, but you’ve got the hands-on experience they need.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings in manufacturing. We often have roles that might not be advertised elsewhere, so make sure you’re applying through us to get the best chance at landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager - Manufacturing in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Production Manager role. Highlight your experience in manufacturing, lean practices, and any relevant KPIs you've managed. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can drive performance and efficiency. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position and our company.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Production Manager, leadership is key. In your application, share examples of how you've led teams, improved processes, or driven change in previous roles. We want to know how you can build capability and accountability within our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our supportive, values-led business.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Business Team
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Production Manager, you'll need to be data-driven. Brush up on key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to manufacturing, like productivity rates and waste reduction. Be ready to discuss how you've improved these metrics in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong people leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, coached individuals, and built accountability. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them.
✨Lean Manufacturing Know-How
Familiarise yourself with lean manufacturing principles. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented continuous improvement strategies in past positions. Highlight any specific projects where you reduced waste or improved flow.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s values and mission. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding UK manufacturing pride and operational excellence. This shows you're not just a fit for the role, but for the company culture too.
