Head of Manufacturing

Description

Head of Manufacturing UK (Site-based)About Us A leading FMCG manufacturing business in Chelmsford with strong financial backing and ambitious ownership entering an exciting new phase of growth and looking to appoint this pivotal role to the senior leadership team.The Role We are seeking an experienced Head of Manufacturing to lead and shape our operational strategy. This is a senior leadership position with responsibility across Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement (CI), Engineering, and Hygiene, while influencing Health & Safety and Quality across the organisation. You will play a pivotal role in delivering safe, efficient, and scalable operations that support our growth ambitions.Key ResponsibilitiesHealth & SafetyPartner with the Head of HSE to develop and implement the site HSE strategyPromote a proactive safety culture across Production, Engineering, Hygiene and CIEnsure full compliance with health & safety legislationLead improvements in HSE performance, including accident reduction and risk managementSupport investigations and ensure corrective actions are closed outChampion sustainability, wellbeing, and environmental initiativesQuality & Food SafetyDrive an "audit-ready every day" culture aligned with BRC and retailer standardsCollaborate with the Head of Technical to deliver the site's safety strategyLead GMP and quality processes, working closely with QA teams to eliminate defectsActively participate in and lead customer and regulatory auditsService & DeliveryOversee production planning to deliver operational targetsAlign closely with Supply Chain and Logistics to ensure material availability and timely dispatchIdentify and eliminate production bottlenecksLead responses to operational disruptions, ensuring clear communication and directionCost ManagementOwn labour, materials, and overall site cost performance against budgetDevelop operational budgets and capital investment plansLead capital projects to improve safety, quality, and efficiencyDrive cost control initiatives, including overtime, agency usage, and shift optimisationMaintain oversight of engineering spend and performanceContinuous ImprovementLead the development and delivery of the site CI strategyApply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to drive efficiencyImprove asset utilisation through effective preventive maintenance (PPM)Build a culture of continuous improvement at all levelsStrategic LeadershipDevelop and execute the manufacturing strategy aligned to business growthLead multi-functional teams including Manufacturing, Engineering, CI and HygieneBuild and develop high-performing teams and leadership capabilityFoster a culture of accountability, engagement, and operational excellenceEnsure the site is equipped with the right people, systems, and processes for future growthContribute to senior leadership decision-making and overall business strategyReporting & Stakeholder EngagementDeliver regular performance reports (weekly, monthly, annual)Represent manufacturing during audits, customer visits and inspectionsAbout You We're looking for a highly capable and driven operational leader who can deliver results in a fast-paced FMCG environment.Skills & ExperienceProven senior leadership experience in food manufacturing or FMCGStrong track record of improving operational performance and efficiencyDeep understanding of food safety, quality standards, and HSE requirementsCommercially aware with strong financial and budget management skillsExperience leading capital projects and managing engineering functions (desirable)Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologiesStrategic thinker with the ability to execute operational plans effectivelyResilient decision-maker in fast-moving, complex environmentsExcellent leadership and people development skillsStrong communicator with influence across all levels-from shop floor to boardroomData-driven with strong IT and KPI performance management capabilityWhy Join Us?Be part of a growing, well-invested business with ambitious plansPlay a key leadership role with real influence on company strategyWork with a strong customer base including major UK retailersLead impactful change in a fast-evolving and dynamic environmentApply Now If you're an experienced manufacturing leader ready to make a significant impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Ad ID: 5418657407