General Manager

System Recruitment Limited; Calne; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The General Manager role is in a precision engineering and sheet metal fabrication environment, located in Wiltshire with commutable distance from Swindon, Newbury, Bath, Bristol and nearby towns. We are seeking a hands-on leader with a strong engineering or industrial background to drive growth, ensure operational excellence and financial performance, and build high-performing teams.

This permanent position requires strategic vision and strong communication skills, with a focus on safety,

Qualifications

• 5 years in a senior operational leadership role in engineering/manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business preferred.
• Strong leadership and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proven success driving operational efficiency and growth.
• Experience with P&L, budgeting, financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across all departments.
• Oversee daily operations, projects, and financial performance.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and stakeholders.
• Lead, mentor and develop department managers and staff.
• Develop and implement business plans, budgets and performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations and company policies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Financial acumen

Operational management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business

Job description

Sector – Precision Engineering – Sheet Metal Fabrication

Job Type: Permanent

Location: Wiltshire, Commutable from Swindon, Newbury, Bath, Bristol, Melksham, Corsham, Chippenham, Frome, Marlborough, Andover

Post Code: SN11 0JU

Salary: £70,000 – £75,000 Bonus, Share Options, Car Allowance, Medical

Start Date: ASAP

As General Manager you will join a respected name in the engineering sector, known for delivering innovative, high-quality sheet metal forming and fabrication solutions. With decades of proven performance and a strong commitment to excellence, we are seeking a high calibre General Manager to lead operations into the next phase of growth and innovation.

You will be commercially biased and will develop growth strategy and business development activities. You will oversee all operational aspects of the company, ensuring operational efficiency, financial performance and client satisfaction. This role requires a hands‑on leader with a strong engineering or industrial background, excellent communication skills, and a passion for team and business development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction across all departments
• Oversee daily operations, project delivery, and financial performance
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders
• Lead, mentor, and develop department managers and staff
• Develop and implement business plans, budgets, and performance metrics
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company policies

Qualifications/Experience:

• Proven experience (5 years) in a senior operational leadership/director role, within the engineering or manufacturing sectors
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field preferred (not essential)
• Strong leadership, organisational and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency and business growth
• Experienced with P L responsibility, budgeting, financial reporting, and resource planning

The role will suit individuals currently working as General Manager, Managing Director, Sales Director, Operations Director, Business Unit Head, CEO, CTO, CFO and be living within a commutable distance of Wiltshire, Swindon, Newbury, Bath, Bristol, Melksham, Corsham, Chippenham, Frome, Marlborough, Andover or be willing to relocate.