Head of Manufacturing

JR United Kingdom; Preston; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

JR United Kingdom is seeking a Group Head of Manufacturing to lead operations at three production sites. This strategic role requires expertise in operational transformation, strong leadership abilities, and the capacity to drive performance and cultural cohesion across the organization.

Benefits

Car Allowance

Bonus

Benefits

Qualifications

• Proven track record in leading high-volume, multi-site manufacturing operations.
• Experience in operational transformation and team development.
• Strong leadership presence with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Own and deliver the group-wide manufacturing strategy across multiple sites.
• Lead, coach, and develop site leadership teams to ensure high performance.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process alignment and innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Stakeholder Engagement

Operational Transformation

Continuous Improvement

Problem-Solving

Education

Degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business

Tools

ERP systems (e.g., SAP)

Job description

Head of Manufacturing

Location: Newton Aycliffe, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom

Salary: Competitive + Car Allowance + Bonus + Benefits

Shape the future. Build a world-class operation. Lead with purpose.

We’re supporting a growing UK manufacturing group in their search for a Group Head of Manufacturing to lead operations across three high-volume production sites.

This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role. You’ll align people, process, and performance - driving operational excellence, cultural cohesion, and long-term transformation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own and deliver the group-wide manufacturing strategy across multiple sites
• Lead, coach, and develop site leadership teams to ensure high performance
• Embed robust governance, Lean principles, and structured improvement routines
• Identify and implement opportunities for process alignment, investment, and innovation
• Represent manufacturing at senior leadership level, influencing wider business decisions

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven track record in leading high-volume, multi-site manufacturing operations
• Experience in operational transformation, team development, and continuous improvement
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to drive alignment and accountability
• Commercially minded with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and delivery
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning skills
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP)
• Degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business

This is a pivotal opportunity for a manufacturing leader ready to make a lasting impact, shaping world-class operations and culture across a dynamic group.

Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation via Jake Richardson.