Plant Manager

Plant Manager role based in Greater Manchester. Working for a well established, industrial SME manufacturing company.

Client Details

Our client is a well established SME manufacturing company based in Greater Manchester.

Description

The Plant Manager 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 Plant Manager 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 manufacturing and equipment reliability, 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, 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.

· Work with external stakeholders, including vendors, contractors, and local authorities, to support operational goals.

Profile

· Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Electrical Engineering background and / or qualified would also be very advantageous, but not essential.

· Advanced degree (MBA, MS in Operations Management) is a plus but not required.

· Proven experience in manufacturing or industrial operations, with a track record a in a senior site leadership role.

· Demonstrated success managing and motivating teams within complex 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 (e.g., Syteline , SAP, etc ) and data analysis tools would be helpful

· Expertise in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.

· Familiarity with modern manufacturing technologies, including automation and robotics.

· Engineering / maintenance knowledge and experience in delivering optimised equipment reliability and performance.

· 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.

Job Offer

£70,000 to £80,000 plus benefits