Manufacturing Manager
📍 Chorley (On-site, Monday–Thursday)
The Opportunity
We are supporting a leading engineering organisation in the nuclear sector with the appointment of a Manufacturing Manager. This is a newly created role designed to work closely with the Head of Manufacturing, taking ownership of the day-to-day management of the manufacturing workshop.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in driving operational excellence, leading high-performing teams, and delivering critical components within a highly regulated, safety-critical environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring delivery against production targets, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
* Lead, coach, and develop Production Team Leaders and shop floor staff
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
* Manage resources effectively (people, equipment, and budget) to meet programme demands
* Ensure full compliance with nuclear industry standards and health & safety regulations
* Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, SHE, and Project teams
* Chair monthly production meetings, tracking performance against KPIs
* Support planning activities, ensuring accurate resource alignment with delivery schedules
* Contribute to a culture of accountability, safety, and high performance across the workshop
* Represent manufacturing in internal and external meetings, including audits and programme reviews
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience in a manufacturing leadership role within a regulated industry (e.g. nuclear, aerospace, defence)
* Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, fabrication, assembly, test, etc.)
* Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma certification (Green Belt minimum)
* Experience working within regulated frameworks (e.g. ISO standards, ONR, ASME)
* Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
* Experience with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools
* Ability to drive performance, manage change, and improve operational efficiency
Desirable
* Degree qualified in Engineering or a related discipline
* Experience managing audits, inspections, and client interactions
* Strong understanding of programme planning tools (e.g. P6)
* Background in continuous improvement and cultural transformation initiatives
Why Apply?
* Newly created role with real scope to shape and influence operations
* Work within a highly specialised, safety-critical sector
* Long-term stability and career progression opportunities
* Collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team