General Manager

WestRock Company; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sustainable packaging firm is seeking a General Manager for their Newcastle site. The role focuses on driving employee engagement, operational excellence, and strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a significant leadership background in manufacturing with strong business acumen and a commitment to sustainability. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive compensation and benefits package

Access to global career development opportunities

Make a meaningful impact on the environment and communities

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in manufacturing or packaging industry.
• Commitment to sustainability, safety, and employee development.

Responsibilities

• Drive engagement, strategic growth, and operational excellence.
• Manage plant operations to meet performance, quality, and safety targets.
• Implement strategic plans to increase plant income and profitability.

Skills

Strong business acumen

Excellent leadership

Communication skills

Interpersonal abilities

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Overview

General Manager - Smurfit Westrock

Location: Newcastle

Salary Range: Competitive + Benefits

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Regional General Manager

Role Overview

As General Manager, you will be responsible for fostering a high-performance culture that drives employee engagement and operational excellence across the Newcastle site. You will lead initiatives that promote open communication, recognition, and collaboration, ensuring all team members feel valued, heard, and empowered. By actively engaging with employees at all levels, you will champion a positive work environment, support professional development, and implement strategies that enhance morale, retention, and productivity. Your leadership will be instrumental in creating a workplace where people thrive and contribute meaningfully to the success of the business.

Responsibilities

• Driving engagement, strategic growth and operational excellence in line with Smurfit Westrock’s values of Safety, Loyalty, Integrity and Respect in all that you do.
• Lead and manage all plant operations to meet performance, quality, and safety targets.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to increase plant income and profitability.
• Build strong relationships across departments and with key customers.
• Drive continuous improvement in productivity, cost control, and customer satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and quality standards.
• Manage and coach sales and customer service teams to achieve growth targets.
• Oversee talent development, recruitment, and performance management.
• Maintain facility assets and ensure optimal operational efficiency.
• Approve pricing and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial summaries.
• Champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across the team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in manufacturing or packaging industry.
• Strong business acumen and financial management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Commitment to sustainability, safety, and employee development.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of the world’s largest sustainable paper and packaging company.
• Work in a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Access to global career development opportunities.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Make a meaningful impact on the environment and communities we serve.