Ibstock Management Trainee Programme

Ibstock Futures; Audley; Hybrid; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid apprenticeship

Support for progression towards a degree

Hands-on training with industry professionals

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company in the United Kingdom is seeking a Management Trainee Apprentice. This 4-year program combines practical experience with academic qualifications, allowing trainees to develop essential technical skills and knowledge. Responsibilities include assisting onsite professionals while traveling between various locations to gain experience in the field. Successful candidates may progress to roles like Assistant Technical Manager or Production Team Leader upon program completion.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills and teamwork
• Willingness to travel between sites
• Interest in manufacturing processes and team leadership

Responsibilities

• Undergo technical skills training through the program.
• Complete the Mineral Products Technician Apprenticeship at Level 5.
• Assist and collaborate with qualified professionals at various sites.

Job description

We are passionate about the recruitment and development of talented individuals so that we can continue to surpass our customers’ expectations. This programme offers you the chance to train for a highly skilled role, gain a nationally recognised qualification and get paid while you learn!

Our Manufacturing Management Trainee Apprenticeship is a 4-year programme where you will undertake the Mineral Products Technician Apprenticeship at Level 5. In addition, you will complete a Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship.

The programme includes Ibstock Technical Modules that will give you the technical skills required for the role. We will also support you in developing the attitudes and behaviours essential for the safe and efficient operation of our factories.

As a Management Trainee, you will have a base factory location but will also be expected to travel and stay at other sites within the Ibstock Group. This will give you the opportunity to work alongside qualified professionals, building your vocational skills while completing your academic qualifications. Upon successful completion, we would also be happy to support your progression towards a full degree.

Where could it take you?

At the end of the programme, you will be ready to begin your career within the organisation. You will have gained the skills and knowledge required to start as an Assistant Technical Manager or Production Team Leader at one of our factories. From there, you can progress into people management roles and develop into a Technical or Production Manager. Your skills, drive, and determination can open the door to many exciting opportunities across the Ibstock Group.

Hear what our current Apprentices have to say...

Aden

Manufacturing Management Trainee

"I chose an apprenticeship after working part-time as a lifeguard, where earning my own money motivated me to pursue full-time work after college. I was drawn to Ibstock because of its size, the variety of roles available, and the strong opportunities for career progression. I wanted a programme that combines practical experience with earning a degree to help me build both knowledge and skills, and I’ve been particularly impressed by Ibstock’s strong focus on safety and the secure, supportive working environment it provides."

Eva

Manufacturing Management Trainee

"I chose to do an apprenticeship to gain work experience while studying within an industry focused on growth and innovation. I was drawn to Ibstock because it supports newcomers and is a forward-thinking company. In my first year, I look forward to working independently on projects, learning about clay extraction, and understanding the best production methods. I believe the programme will support my career development by exposing me to different factory roles and helping my gain valuable experience for progression within the company. My goals include developing strong management skills and collaborating with people across the country to contribute to Ibstock’s future. I expect to learn about brick manufacturing across multiple sites and work on an engaging project. So far, my experience has been very fulfilling, supported by knowledgeable and helpful colleagues who take the time to teach me."

Owen

Manufacturing Management Trainee

"I chose to pursue a degree apprenticeship after balancing two jobs and three A-levels in college, seeing it as the ideal way to combine work and education. I was drawn to Ibstock after researching the company’s goals and values, feeling that I could contribute positively to its mission. In my first year, I look forward to working with my team, learning key processes, and gaining the knowledge needed to excel in my role. I believe the apprenticeship will provide invaluable experience and a strong balance between academic learning and hands‑on work. I hope to deepen my understanding of material science, complete my degree, and reach a level of competency that allows me to contribute meaningfully to the business. So far, my experience at Ibstock has been very positive, thanks to the supportive and down‑to‑earth nature of my team."

Jake Sherman

Material Science Management Trainee

I chose Ibstock's apprenticeship program because it offered the best of both worlds: academic study and hands‑on experience. The opportunity to earn a degree while gaining practical skills and securing a full‑time job at the end was incredibly appealing. I’ve loved the chance to explore different sites, the freedom to learn and grow, and the warm, welcoming community at Ibstock. The programme has taught me to be proactive and always eager to learn. There’s so much to discover about brick manufacturing, and I’ve relished every challenge. Overall, I’m thrilled with my decision to pursue an apprenticeship with Ibstock. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Toby Ashcroft

Manufacturing Management Trainee

Since joining Ibstock, I have enrolled in a BEng (Hons) Materials Technology course at Sheffield Hallam University and have completed various training courses, including IGas Level 1 & 2 and IOSH Managing Safety. Ibstock has made me feel like part of a team, a sense I lacked in previous jobs, and the team constantly comes up with new ideas to aid my development.

In my roles as a Manufacturing Management Trainee I specialise in kilns and dryers, travelling between nine factories to address technical issues in the drying and firing processes of household brick production. My role focuses on reducing carbon emissions, saving gas and energy, optimising material usage, and resolving firing defects. Additionally, I spend half my time with the projects team, overseeing the commissioning of kilns and dryers for our new net‑zero factory, which aims to produce 115 million bricks annually.

Get in Touch with our Team

Interested in joining Ibstock as an apprentice? Get in touch with our team to find out more details.