Engineering Manager - Bakery Manufacturing

Lantmännen Unibake; Wallis; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Lantmännen Unibake Bedford is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to lead the site engineering and maintenance function, driving reliability, safety and continuous improvement. You will report to the General Manager and shape a world-class, people-centered engineering capability that supports operating efficiency and growth.

The role focuses on developing talent, managing budgets and capital projects, and collaborating with Operations, Technical, and HR to deliver safe, compliant and

Qualifications

• Experience leading a manufacturing engineering team.
• Strong focus on safety, reliability and continuous improvement.
• Budget management and capital project oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing engineering team.
• Champion Health & Safety culture with zero accidents target.
• Develop and implement maintenance strategies to improve plant reliability.
• Drive continuous improvement and best practices across the site.
• Manage all maintenance activities for plant, equipment and facilities.
• Develop KPI frameworks to improve performance and efficiency.
• Lead engineering projects from planning to implementation.
• Manage engineering budgets and stores.
• Ensure compliance with legal and company standards.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to support operations.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

HND in Engineering

Degree preferred

Tools

CMMS systems

Job description

Have an appetite for more? Join a leading global bakery group powered by ambitious people that are truly passionate about delivering the best in everything they do.

With business in mind and people at heart we always work together to influence our road ahead. We want you to be part of our growth journey and of a great, global family.

Bedford | Food Manufacturing | Monday – Friday

Lead the future of engineering performance through people, reliability and continuous improvement

We're looking for an experienced Engineering Manager to lead the engineering and maintenance function at our Bedford manufacturing site.

Reporting to the General Manager, this is a high-impact leadership role offering the opportunity to shape and develop a world-class, people-centred engineering function. You'll play a critical role in driving engineering excellence, improving reliability, developing talent and ensuring the site operates safely, efficiently and compliantly.

The Opportunity

As Engineering Manager, you'll be responsible for leading the site engineering team, fostering a strong safety culture and delivering a proactive maintenance strategy that supports operational performance and future growth. You'll work closely with Operations, Technical, HR and other functions to drive continuous improvement and create an environment where teams can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing engineering team through coaching, mentoring and visible leadership
• Champion a positive Health & Safety culture with a focus on achieving zero accidents
• Develop and implement maintenance strategies that improve plant reliability and reduce downtime
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and engineering best practices across the site
• Manage all maintenance activities covering plant, equipment and facilities
• Develop KPI frameworks to improve performance, reliability and efficiency
• Lead engineering projects from planning through to implementation
• Manage engineering budgets, expenditure and engineering stores
• Ensure compliance with legal, customer and company engineering standards
• Build strong relationships across the business to support operational success.

About You

We're interested in hearing from Engineering Managers, Maintenance Managers, Chief Engineers or Heads of Engineering who enjoy developing people and building engineering capability.

You'll Bring

• HND in Engineering (degree preferred) or relevant experience
• Proven leadership experience within a manufacturing environment
• Strong maintenance and reliability experience
• Experience managing budgets and capital projects
• Continuous Improvement / Lean Manufacturing experience
• Knowledge of CMMS systems
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• A people-first leadership approach that motivates, develops and inspires teams.

Why Join Us?

This role offers genuine autonomy and the chance to make a lasting impact. You\'ll have the opportunity to shape engineering strategy, develop an engaged team and drive meaningful improvements in reliability, safety and performance within a growing manufacturing business.

All applications must be completed in English and will be treated confidentially.

If you have any questions about the position or recruitment process you are welcome to contact Tammy Davies.