Manufacturing Manager

The Oval Partnership; Bridport; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Oval Partnership is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to act as the second-in-command to the Site Director at a fast-paced FMCG site near the Jurassic Coast. You will lead a 24/7 operation, drive production targets, and spearhead continuous improvement initiatives across the site.

Predominant responsibilities include acting as deputy to the Site Director, managing multi-shift production, and mentoring a high-performance team, with a focus on safety, quality and lean practices.

Qualifications

• Experience leading senior production or operations in fast-paced FMCG settings.
• Proven ability to manage multi-shift production teams and develop front-line leaders.
• Strong analytics using ERP data to improve throughput and reduce bottlenecks.
• Experience driving change with Lean tools and problem-solving methods.

Responsibilities

• Act as deputy to Site Director, leading overall site performance and compliance.
• Direct 24/7 production across multiple shifts, meeting volume, efficiency and safety targets.
• Develop and mentor shop-floor teams to foster a high-performance culture.
• Oversee end-to-end production lines, optimise OEE while maintaining quality and allergen controls.
• Embed Lean principles (5S, Kaizen) to reduce waste and improve yields.

Skills

FMCG experience

People management

Data-driven

Leadership

Continuous improvement mindset

Tools

SMED

RCA

DMAIC

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager for a leading FMCG manufacturing business to act as a core operational leader and second-in-command to the Site Director.

Situated near the Jurassic Coast, a relocation package is included for candidates moving to the area for this role.

Overseeing a high-speed 24/7 manufacturing operation, you will lead a shop-floor team, drive daily production targets, and spearhead site-wide continuous improvement initiatives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Site Leadership: Act as the formal deputy to the Site Director, stepping in to lead overall site performance, key customer audits, and operational compliance.
• Operational Execution: Direct 24/7 production across multiple shifts, driving world-class manufacturing standards to consistently achieve volume, efficiency, and safety targets.
• Team Development: Lead and mentor to foster a high-performance, collaborative shop-floor culture across the workforce.
• Process Optimisation: Oversee end-to-end production lines, optimising Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) while maintaining rigorous quality and allergen control standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Embed Lean manufacturing principles (e.g. 5S, Kaizen) to reduce waste, improve yields, and drive sustainable operational practices.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• FMCG Experience: Proven track record in a senior production or operations role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• People Management: Demonstrated success managing large, multi-shift production teams and developing front-line leaders.
• Data-Driven Approach: Strong analytical skills using manufacturing metrics and ERP data to eliminate bottlenecks and optimise throughput.
• Technical Toolbox: Proven experience of driving change using tools and techniques such as SMED, RCA and DMAIC
• Leadership Style: Calm under pressure, highly collaborative, and driven by continuous improvement.

Unfortunately, Visa sponsorship is unavailable for this opportunity, successful applicants must hold full and indefinite rights to live and work in the UK