Head of Polishing – Sunderland
Salary: From £30,000 per year
Employment type: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
Company pension
Employee discount
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:
Lead, support, and develop a team of polishers at all skill levels
Manage workflow, set priorities, and ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality
Take ownership of finish quality, inspecting and signing off work with attention to detail
Drive improvements in polishing techniques, processes, and efficiency
Maintain and troubleshoot equipment safely and effectively
Champion health and safety standards, including proper use of PPE and materials
Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth production flow
Skills & Experience Required:
Proven experience in polishing, finishing, or spray operations in furniture, joinery, or manufacturing
Experience leading or mentoring a team
Exceptional eye for detail and pride in high-quality finishes
Strong understanding of materials, coatings, and finishing techniques
Proactive problem-solving mindset
Confidence managing workflow, priorities, and deadlines in a production environment
Collaborative approach with strong communication skills
Opportunities for Innovation:
Transitioning to water-based paint systems
Exploring new finishes such as metallics and specialist effects
Continuously improving quality and efficiency through smarter processes
Why Join Us:
Permanent, full-time leadership role in a stable, growing business
Shape and develop a key department
Lead a skilled, committed team that takes pride in its work
Opportunity to implement new ideas and make a visible impact
Satisfaction of seeing your team’s craftsmanship in high-quality finished produc
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