Plant Manager

Sharpsmart UK; Gillingham; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare solutions provider in Gillingham is seeking an experienced Plant Manager to oversee operational efficiency and safety. The ideal candidate will have significant management experience in a manufacturing environment, strong leadership skills, and a track record of driving operational improvements. This role offers a competitive salary, bonuses, and extensive employee benefits including private healthcare and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Pension

Private Healthcare and Dental care

Employee benefits scheme

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Significant experience in plant or manufacturing leadership.
• Proven track record of operational improvements.
• Strong knowledge of heavy machinery and maintenance planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the plant’s operational strategy.
• Oversee plant performance, including production and maintenance.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Strategy

Resource Management

Communication

Safety Management

Job description

We’re seeking an experienced and leader to join our Rainham Operations Team as Plant Manager. In this role, you’ll take full responsibility for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective running of the plant, overseeing all operational activities and leading the team to deliver high performance.

You’ll set the operational direction, ensure resources are in place, and foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. While you’ll spend time on the plant floor to stay connected with day-to-day operations, your focus will be on planning, leadership, and driving results at a broader level.

This is a key position for someone who can balance operational oversight with strategic thinking, ensuring the plant meets its targets while supporting the long-term growth of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the plant’s operational strategy to meet production, quality, and safety targets
• Oversee all aspects of plant performance, including production, maintenance, staffing, and resource planning
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime
• Manage budgets and control operational costs without compromising quality or safety
• Build and mentor a high-performing leadership team within the plant
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, policies, and safety standards
  
  
  

Candidate profile

• Significant experience in plant, warehouse, or manufacturing leadership, ideally at manager or senior supervisor level
• Proven track record of delivering operational improvements and managing large teams
• Strong knowledge of heavy machinery, maintenance planning, and operational best practice
• Skilled in resource management, planning, and budget control
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with a focus on results and safety
• WAMITAB & H&S Qualification advantageous – both must be attained if not held
• 45 hour working week usually 8am - 6pm
  
  
  

What we can offer:

• Competitive salary package plus bonus potential
• Pension
• Private Healthcare and Dental care options
• Employee benefits scheme including financial planning, gym scheme, discounts across a range of retail, days out & leisure, travel, motoring, food & drink plus much more.
• Genuine investment throughout your career for professional development
• Company events and networking opportunities
• Stability as an essential service to healthcare, ensuring a non-seasonal and stable business environment
  
  
  

If you’re ready to take the lead in a high-impact role and help shape the future of our Rainham operations, we’d like to hear from you.