Overview
Reference
IR477 Salary
£30,000 - £40,000/annum Job Location
- United Kingdom -- England -- North East England -- Tyne and Wear -- Sunderland Job Type
Permanent Posted
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Head of Polishing – Sunderland
Salary: From £30,000 per year
Employment type: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
1. Company pension
2. Employee discount
3. On-site parking
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced Head of Polishing to lead our paint shop and finishing department. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who takes pride in exceptional standards, enjoys developing a team, and is passionate about creating flawless finishes.
You will work with a skilled team ranging from apprentices to highly experienced craftsmen, guiding and supporting them to achieve the highest quality results.
Key Responsibilities:
4. Lead, support, and develop a team of polishers at all skill levels
5. Manage workflow, set priorities, and ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality
6. Take ownership of finish quality, inspecting and signing off work with attention to detail
7. Drive improvements in polishing techniques, processes, and efficiency
8. Maintain and troubleshoot equipment safely and effectively
9. Champion health and safety standards, including proper use of PPE and materials
10. Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth production flow
Skills & Experience Required:
11. Proven experience in polishing, finishing, or spray operations in furniture, joinery, or manufacturing
12. Experience leading or mentoring a team
13. Exceptional eye for detail and pride in high-quality finishes
14. Strong understanding of materials, coatings, and finishing techniques
15. Proactive problem-solving mindset
16. Confidence managing workflow, priorities, and deadlines in a production environment
17. Collaborative approach with strong communication skills
Opportunities for Innovation:
18. Transitioning to water-based paint systems
19. Exploring new finishes such as metallics and specialist effects
20. Continuously improving quality and efficiency through smarter processes
Why Join Us:
21. Permanent, full-time leadership role in a stable, growing business
22. Shape and develop a key department
23. Lead a skilled, committed team that takes pride in its work
24. Opportunity to implement new ideas and make a visible impact
25. Satisfaction of seeing your team’s craftsmanship in high-quality finished produc
INDNC