Plant Manager

ZipRecruiter; Chippenham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global manufacturer in Chippenham is seeking a Plant Manager to oversee site operations. In this leadership role, you will ensure safety and quality standards, manage site dynamics, and develop high-performance teams. The ideal candidate has experience in unionized manufacturing and a proven track record in operational excellence. Competitive benefits and full-time employment offered.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading in automation-heavy manufacturing environments.
• Strong track record in safety and quality management.
• Experience negotiating with trade unions.

Responsibilities

• Lead site operations to meet output, cost, and quality targets.
• Champion a zero-accident safety culture.
• Develop and execute long-term strategy for operations.

Skills

Leadership in manufacturing environments

Safety management

Cost management

Analytical skills

Team development

Job description

Overview

Now Hiring: Plant Manager – Chippenham | Wavin, an Orbia business

Location: Chippenham, UK

Full-time | Leadership Role

Are you a strategic, hands-on leader with a passion for operational excellence, safety, and continuous improvement? Join Wavin – a global leader in sustainable building and infrastructure solutions – as Site Manager at our Chippenham facility. This is a pivotal role where you'll lead our site manufacturing, technical, and engineering operations, driving world-class standards and delivering tangible business impact.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and direct all site operations to meet output, cost, and quality targets
• Champion a zero-accident safety culture across the site
• Develop and execute a long-term strategy to build a world-class operations environment
• Manage and coach the Site Management Team, fostering a high-performance culture
• Drive year-on-year cost reduction through continuous improvement initiatives
• Oversee operational budgets and ensure efficient resource utilization
• Maintain full compliance with quality systems, procedures, and industry standards
• Lead employee engagement initiatives and foster strong union relationships
• Build collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, and suppliers

What You Bring

• Proven experience leading in automation-heavy and unionized manufacturing environments
• Strong track record in safety, quality, and cost management
• Experience negotiating with trade unions and managing complex site dynamics
• High-level financial and commercial acumen, including budget ownership
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to engage, develop, and align teams toward shared goals
• Comfortable navigating fast-paced, high-performance environments
• Skilled at balancing strategic vision with practical execution