Head of Manufacturing role based in Lancashire. Working for a well established, aerospace manufacturing company.
Client Details
Our client is a well established aerospace company and they are currently recruiting a Head of Manufacturing in Lancashire.
Description
The Head of Manufacturing will serve as the senior leader responsible for overseeing the entire plant's operations ensuring efficient production, effective resource utilization, and adherence to high safety and quality standards. This role requires a balance of strategic planning and hands-on management to achieve operational excellence and align plant performance with corporate objectives. The Head of Manufacturing will lead cross-functional teams, optimise processes, and foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate is an experienced leader with a strong background in aerospace, industrial manufacturing or automotive manufacturing sectors, will have high levels of problem-solving skills, and the ability to motivate teams to achieve ambitious goals.
· Develop and execute the plant's long-term strategic objectives, aligning with corporate goals and market demands.
· Create and implement operational plans to achieve productivity, efficiency, and profitability targets.
· Lead initiatives to expand capacity, improve product quality, and reduce costs.
· Regularly assess plant performance and present updates, challenges, and recommendations to senior leadership.
· Oversee daily plant operations and production, ensuring all support departments (maintenance, quality, logistics, and safety) function cohesively.
· Manage production schedules to meet customer requirements and delivery timelines.
· Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for Safety, Quality, Cost, On-time delivery, Equipment and People .
· Coordinate with supply chain teams to ensure raw materials, components, and resources are available for uninterrupted production.
· Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of department heads, supervisors, and staff.
· Conduct performance appraisals, set clear expectations, and create professional development plans for employees.
· Promote a culture of accountability, empowerment, and collaboration.
· Lead workforce planning initiatives, including hiring, training, and succession planning.
· Act as the primary liaison between the plant and corporate leadership, ensuring clear communication of goals, challenges, and results.
· Collaborate with sales, technical, and supply chain teams to align production with business needs.
· Partner with HR to address workforce issues, including conflict resolution, training, and employee engagement.
Profile
Proven experience in aerospace, automotive or industrial manufacturing, with a track record in a senior site leadership role.
· Demonstrated success managing and motivating teams within complex or medium / high volume production environments.
· Proven ability to deliver high performance in Safety, Quality and Delivery.
· Strong knowledge of manufacturing systems, processes, and best practices.
· Proficiency with ERP systems and data analysis tools would be helpful
· Expertise in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
· Familiarity with modern manufacturing technologies.
· Exceptional leadership and decision-making abilities, with the capacity to motivate and inspire teams.
· Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to manage complex challenges.
· Excellent communication skills for effective interaction with employees, stakeholders, and leadership.
· Strategic mindset with the ability to balance long-term goals with short-term operational needs.
· A recognised qualification in a manufacturing, engineering or leadership discipline, or the related work experience
Job Offer
£85,000 to £90,000 salary, plus car allowance, SLT bonus and benefits