Michael page
Plant Manager
Job Description
- Well established Manufacturing Company
- Site Leadership Role
About Our Client
Our client is a well established SME manufacturing company based in Greater Manchester.
Job Description
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.
The Successful Applicant
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Electrical Engineering background and / or qualified here 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.
What’s on Offer
£70,000 to £80,000 plus benefits