Plant Manager

JR United Kingdom; Bedford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing group seeks a dynamic General Manager to lead a significant site in the UK. This role encompasses full operational authority, team leadership, and the execution of strategic goals. Candidates should possess strong leadership skills, operational experience, and the ability to foster a people-focused culture.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary (DOE)

Clear 5–10-year career progression plan

Supportive, values-led leadership team

Action-packed, rewarding role

Qualifications

• Experience in leading complex manufacturing or industrial sites.
• Proactive with a hands-on approach.
• A proven track record of people-centered leadership.

Responsibilities

• Full operational responsibility for a large UK site.
• Lead and develop a large diverse team.
• Drive efficiency and improve manufacturing performance.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Performance

Empathy

Communication

Strategic Instincts

Inclusivity

Adaptability

Education

Degree in relevant field

IOSH qualification

Job description

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Are you a dynamic leader with energy to burn and the emotional intelligence to motivate a diverse workforce?

We’re looking for a General Manager to take the reins of a major UK site for a global manufacturing group. You’ll have full site responsibility – leading a team of up to 200, driving operational performance, and creating a culture of structure, efficiency, and high engagement.

This is a fast-moving, high-accountability role for someone who balances intelligence with likability, you’ll lead with empathy, communicate with clarity, and run a tight ship.

About You

• In-line with the rest of the SLT, you’ll ideally be degree-educated and experienced in leading complex manufacturing or industrial sites
• You’ll be IOSH qualified
• Naturally proactive, not reactive with strong strategic instincts and a hands-on approach
• You’ll be a big believer in clean, structured and safe environments – you like a tidy factory that reflects pride in the work
• As a people’s person, you’ll be inclusive, adaptable, and open-minded in a rapidly evolving world
• Known for balancing commercial sense with people-centred leadership
• Happy to travel occasionally to the US and Germany to stay connected globally
• A team-first leader who understands that strong results come from shared ownership and accountability

About the role

• Full operational responsibility for a large UK site – production, quality, engineering, H&S, maintenance
• Lead, engage and develop a large and diverse team across multiple functions
• Ensure manufacturing performance is measured, structured, and continuously improving
• Drive efficiency and order, from workflow to cleanliness and process
• Represent the site with confidence both internally and internationally
• Create a culture of accountability, organisation, and calm under pressure

What You’ll Get:

• Highly competitive salary (DOE)
• Clear 5–10-year career progression plan
• Chance to join a supportive, values-led senior leadership team
• A genuinely action-packed, rewarding role where your influence will be seen and felt

This role has come up due to internal promotion, a reflection of the company’s commitment to growing leaders from within.

• A global manufacturer
• Highly respected in their field
• Growing due to acquisition
• Fantastic company culture

If you’ve got what it takes to run a world-class shop floor with clarity, consistency, and care, get in touch with Lucy Bailey today on 0161 883 2126 for a confidential chat.