Production Manager

Huntsman; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading advanced materials company in Cambridge is seeking a Production Manager to oversee manufacturing operations at the Duxford site. This role requires strong leadership to ensure safe and efficient production and to foster a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate should have a degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field and significant experience in production management. Familiarity with LEAN principles and EHS compliance is essential. Join an innovative team focused on operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Degree in a technical discipline like Chemical Engineering or Chemistry.
• Experience in production management within the chemical sector.
• Knowledge of EHS requirements and process safety principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day production activities across multiple shifts.
• Drive continuous improvement using LEAN tools.
• Collaborate with Planning, Quality, Engineering, and Product Development.

Skills

Leadership

Continuous Improvement

LEAN Manufacturing

EHS Compliance

Communication

Education

Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related field

Tools

SAP

Job description

Job Description:

Huntsman Advanced Materials is looking for a Production Manager to lead our manufacturing operations at the Duxford site. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving safe, compliant, and efficient production while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. As part of the Site Leadership Team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our operations and supporting strategic growth initiatives.

Do you think you’re the right fit for this opportunity? Apply today!

Role Responsibilities:

• Champion EHS and Process Safety, and Quality ensuring compliance with Huntsman standards and COMAH requirements.
• Lead day-to-day production activities across multi-shift operations, delivering key KPIs such as Right-First-Time, OTIF, Production Planning and productivity targets.
• Managing and developing a team of 6 direct reports, building capability through coaching, training, and succession planning.
• Drive continuous improvement using LEAN tools (5S, Kaizen, OEE) and data-driven decision-making.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Planning, Quality, Engineering, and Product Development to ensure seamless operations and technology transfers.
• Act as a visible leader during audits, customer visits, and regulatory inspections.
• Support site readiness for future growth, CAPEX/OPEX projects, and technology upgrades.

Experience and Competencies:

• A degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical discipline.
• Significant experience in production management within the chemical sector (or pharma/biochemical equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of EHS requirements and process safety principles.
• Proven track record in LEAN manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Commercial awareness (customer focus) and experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.

What we are looking for:

• Inspirational Leadership & People Development – Lead by example, empower your team, and create a culture of growth and collaboration. Customer Focus and quality mindset (Audit readiness).
• Strategic Thinking and Performance Orientation
• Conceptual and Innovative Thinking
• Accountability & Cost-Conscious Decision-Making – Drive operational excellence while maintaining a strong focus on efficiency and cost awareness in a production environment.

What next?

If you would like to join an innovative, collaborative and multicultural team, please apply now. Your application will be forwarded to a Talent Acquisition Partner, who will strive to get back to you as soon as they can. We understand that applying for a new job is a big decision and we will work hard to keep you updated and support you along the way.

About Us:

At Huntsman, we pride ourselves on being a people-oriented organization.

Our family-like atmosphere is cultivated by our diverse groups of team members around the world.

We welcome the talent, experience and fresh ideas that employees at all stages of their careers, from interns to seasoned professionals, bring to Huntsman.

In return, we offer you the opportunity to become an integral part dynamic, industry-leading company, where safety and ethics always come first.

Additional Locations: