General Manager - Manufacturing

Manpower UK Ltd; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering manufacturer based in Sunderland is seeking an experienced General Manager to oversee site operations. You will ensure smooth manufacturing, warehouse, and customer service functions while promoting commercial growth. Responsibilities include operational oversight, budget management, and health and safety compliance. The ideal candidate has proven managerial experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment. A competitive salary of £65,000 - £75,000 is offered, along with a benefits package.

Benefits

Fully expensed company vehicle

Competitive benefits package

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a General Manager or Operations Manager in manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of operations and customer service.
• Demonstrable commercial acumen in budget management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage operations across manufacturing, warehouse, and customer service.
• Oversee production planning and quality control.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety legislation.

Skills

Leadership

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Communication

Commercial acumen

Staff development

Education

Qualification in Engineering, Operations Management, or Business Administration

Tools

ERP systems

Production management systems

Job description

An established and growing engineering manufacturer based in Sunderland is seeking a driven and experienced General Manager to oversee its full site operations.

This is a senior leadership position responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the manufacturing floor, warehouse, and customer service functions, while supporting the ongoing commercial growth of the business.

Working alongside a capable team of middle managers, you will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and hands‑on leadership to drive performance, profitability, and quality throughout the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage day‑to‑day operations across manufacturing, warehouse, and customer service departments.
• Collaborate with middle managers to ensure effective communication, efficiency, and consistency across all functions.
• Oversee production planning, output, and quality control to meet customer demand and company objectives.
• Take responsibility for commercial performance, including budget management, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation and promote a strong safety culture throughout the site.
• Support HR activities, including staff development, recruitment, and performance management.
• Maintain excellent relationships with key customers and suppliers, ensuring exceptional service and long‑term partnerships.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and profitability.
• Contribute to the company's strategic planning, supporting growth and operational excellence.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience as a General Manager, Operations Manager, or similar senior role in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Strong understanding of factory operations, warehouse management, and customer service functions.
• Demonstrable commercial acumen with experience in budget ownership and improving financial performance.
• In‑depth knowledge of Health & Safety standards and compliance requirements.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to engage and motivate teams.
• Confident communicator with strong decision‑making and problem‑solving capabilities.

Experience in HR processes and team development

Proficient in modern manufacturing practices and comfortable with systems and data‑driven management.

Desirable

• Formal qualification in Engineering, Operations Management, or Business Administration.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with ERP or production management systems.

Package

£65,000 - £75,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

Fully expensed company vehicle

Competitive benefits package