Manufacturing Manager
* Reference: J6943_1764859492
* Job Type: Permanent
* Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire
* Skills: production management, manufacturing leadership, continuous improvement, H&S, operations
* Industry: Manufacturing and Production
We are partnering with this well‑established, growing manufacturer, as they continue to strengthen their operational leadership team. With a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement, they are now seeking a Manufacturing Manager to lead production, drive performance, and support the next phase of operational growth.
This is a key role within a busy manufacturing environment, perfect for someone who thrives on pace, ownership, and making a measurable difference to output, quality, and team culture.
What you'll be doing as Manufacturing Manager
* Leading day‑to‑day production to meet targets, quality standards and service levels
* Driving continuous improvement using Lean, Kaizen or Six Sigma principles
* Monitoring key KPIs (OEE, scrap rates, throughput) and using data to guide decisions
* Optimising production processes, workflows and resource planning
* Championing innovation, new technologies and modern manufacturing practices
* Leading initiatives to reduce waste, streamline processes and boost productivity
* Ensuring SOPs, machine settings and key documentation are up to date and effective
* Providing clear leadership to production, maintenance and the H&S Manager
* Developing a strong, accountable team culture with coaching and progression
* Ensuring the team is fully resourced, supporting recruitment and onboarding with HR
* Maintaining exceptional health & safety standards, training and compliance
* Acting as the key link between operations, H&S and senior leadership
* Managing operational costs, supporting budgeting and identifying savings
* Reporting regularly and supporting wider operational strategy
* Taking the lead in incident response, product recall or crisis management
What we're looking for
* Proven experience in a manufacturing leadership role, managing and developing high‑performing teams
* Strong background in continuous improvement, with practical experience using Lean, Kaizen, Six Sigma or similar methodologies
* Hands‑on approach with solid understanding of production equipment, workflows and manufacturing processes
* Confident leader who can coach, empower and build a collaborative, accountable team culture
* Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment where systems and processes are continually evolving
* Strong focus on safety, quality and operational discipline, with a commercial mindset
* Analytical, data‑driven and confident using KPIs, ERP systems and MS Office (especially Excel)
* Excellent communication skills, able to influence and build relationships across all levels
You'll fit the culture if you are
* Practical, proactive and steady under pressure
* Someone who leads by example and brings people along
* Keen on improving processes and creating a positive team environment
* Comfortable balancing hands‑on involvement with strategic oversight
Hours
Monday – Thursday: 08:00‑17:00
Friday: 08:00‑14:00
What's in it for you
* Positive culture
* Life assurance
* Health plan
* Salary sacrifice pension scheme
* Enhanced family leave
* 28 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service)
* Company sick pay
If you're an experienced manufacturing leader who enjoys variety, pace, and the opportunity to shape and develop a team, we'd love to hear from you.
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