Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing role based in Birkenhead. Working for a well established industrial manufacturing company.

Client Details

Our client is a well established SME manufacturing company based in Birkenhead

Description

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Manufacturing to lead the operational performance of our busy manufacturing plant, reporting to the Managing Director. This is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operational activities, ensuring optimal productivity, health and safety, quality, and continuous improvement across the site.

You will collaborate closely with our technical, engineering, finance, and quality teams to drive efficiency and excellence across all areas of production. This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who must possess a strong engineering background and a passion for operational improvement.

Having worked in the chemicals industry would be advantageous but not essential.

Key Responsibilities:

· Lead, manage, and continuously improve all plant operations.

· Drive performance, productivity, and quality in line with business KPIs.

· Manage a diverse workforce including permanent production operators and agency staff.

· Ensure operational alignment with engineering, quality, technical, and finance functions.

· Introduce and drive a culture of lean six sigma throughout the business

· Champion Lean Six Sigma methodologies and embed continuous improvement culture.

· Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability and engagement.

· Oversee key HR processes including annual performance reviews, capability assessments, disciplinary and grievance matters.

· Ensure all operations comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.

· Monitor operational budgets, reporting on performance and delivering cost efficiencies, and taking appropriate action where required.

· Work with the Engineering team to deliver large-scale improvement projects.

· Be able to naturally engage with a range of personnel and support all employee engagement initiatives.

· Effectively manage conflicting priorities on a daily basis, ensuring maximum machine utilisation.

Profile

· Proven experience in an operations management role within a manufacturing environment.

· Comfortable working in a dynamic and constantly changing environment.

· Strong background in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical).

· Demonstrable leadership experience with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively.

· Hands-on experience working with both permanent and temporary/agency production staff.

· Proficient in Lean Six Sigma with a strong track record of driving continuous improvement initiatives.

· Experience managing HR-related processes including performance management, capability reviews, and disciplinary/grievance handling.

· Strong communicator with excellent organizational and decision-making skills.

· Previous experience working as part of a Senior Leadership Team

Job Offer

£70,000 to £80,000 plus bonus and benefits