Plant Manager

JR United Kingdom; Preston; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing group seeks a dynamic General Manager to oversee a major UK site. This fast-paced role necessitates strong leadership, operational excellence, and the ability to foster a collaborative culture. Ideal candidates will possess a degree and IOSH qualification, with a track record of driving performance in complex environments.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Career progression plan

Supportive leadership team

Rewarding role

Qualifications

• Experienced in leading complex manufacturing or industrial sites.
• Naturally proactive with strong strategic instincts.
• Inclusive and adaptable in a rapidly evolving world.

Responsibilities

• Full operational responsibility for a large UK site.
• Lead and develop a diverse team across multiple functions.
• Drive efficiency and ensure continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Management

Emotional Intelligence

Operational Performance

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.