Office / Factory Manager

Hales Group; Norton-on-Derwent; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable manufacturing company based in Letchworth is seeking an experienced Office / Factory Manager. The successful candidate will oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency in both office and factory environments. Responsibilities include managing schedules, handling customer enquiries, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The role requires strong communication skills, a hands-on approach, and the ability to solve problems effectively. If you thrive in a dynamic setting and enjoy multitasking, this position is ideal for you.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in production coordination or office/factory management is preferred.
• Strong IT skills with office software, particularly Microsoft Office.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and maintain organization in a busy environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and drive efficiency.
• Manage job flow and support factory operations.
• Respond to customer enquiries and prepare quotations.

Skills

Previous experience in a similar office / factory management role

Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Excellent attention to detail

Comfortable working in a busy, industrial setting

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Office / Factory Manager

Location : Letchworth

Salary : £30,000 - £40,000 per year

Hours : Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm or 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (flexible schedule)

About the Company

Our client is a long-established manufacturing business based in Letchworth, known for producing high-quality components and delivering excellent customer service. The working environment is industrial and fast-paced, with a strong focus on practical problem-solving and teamwork. They are now seeking a reliable and proactive Office / Factory Manager to oversee daily operations and drive efficiency across both office and shop floor functions.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on, multi-functional role that combines administrative duties with production coordination and team supervision. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing job flow, supporting factory operations, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring customer expectations are met. You'll be the central link between the office, production team, and customers.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Factory Coordination

• Attend daily production meetings to plan and prioritise job schedules.
• Book in new jobs, list required parts, and confirm pricing where possible.
• Maintain and update job tracking systems and visual boards.
• Supervise Goods In and Goods Out areas, ensuring correct parts are packed and dispatched together.
• Monitor progress of jobs on the shop floor and communicate realistic completion timelines to customers.
• Ensure non-account jobs are paid for before leaving the premises.
• Support and motivate shop floor staff, helping resolve issues and maintain workflow.

Customer & Communication Management

• Respond to customer enquiries via phone and email.
• Prepare and send quotations, confirm lead times, and follow up on job readiness.
• Notify customers when jobs are complete and ready for collection or delivery.
• Take and record cash and card payments accurately, ensuring proper documentation.

Administrative Duties

• Request and record purchase orders from customers; update internal systems accordingly.
• Issue job paperwork and prepare documentation for invoicing.
• Match delivery notes with supplier invoices and pass to bookkeeper for processing.
• Maintain accurate records of accounts payable and receivable queries.
• Enter weekly timesheets and submit monthly wage spreadsheets to the bookkeeper.
• Record staff holidays and sickness, ensuring forms are completed and planners updated.
• File daily / weekly check sheets and maintenance logs.

Health & Safety & Maintenance

• Oversee all aspects of Health & Safety, ensuring compliance and continuous improvement.
• Maintain the machinery register and ensure servicing is booked and completed on schedule (annual / bi-annual).
• Organise parts or maintenance required based on daily / weekly check sheets.
• Liaise with external HR consultants for any staff-related matters.

Qualifications & Skills

Experience

• Previous experience in a similar office / factory management or production coordination role.

IT Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and general office software.

Communication

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Organisation

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Adaptability

• Comfortable working in a busy, industrial setting with a proactive and flexible approach.

Problem-Solving

• Able to identify issues and implement practical solutions quickly.

What You'll Bring

• A hands-on attitude and willingness to get involved in all areas of the business.
• Confidence in managing people, processes, and priorities.
• A calm and organised approach to a fast-moving environment.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, responsibility, and being at the heart of a busy manufacturing operation. If you're ready to make a real impact and thrive in a practical, no-frills setting, we'd love to hear from you.