Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing UK (Site-based)

About Us A leading FMCG manufacturing business in Chelmsford with strong financial backing and ambitious ownership entering an exciting new phase of growth and looking to appoint this pivotal role to the senior leadership team.

The Role We are seeking an experienced Head of Manufacturing to lead and shape our operational strategy. This is a senior leadership position with responsibility across Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement (CI), Engineering, and Hygiene, while influencing Health & Safety and Quality across the organisation.

You will play a pivotal role in delivering safe, efficient, and scalable operations that support our growth ambitions.

Key Responsibilities Health & Safety
Partner with the Head of HSE to develop and implement the site HSE strategy
Promote a proactive safety culture across Production, Engineering, Hygiene and CI
Ensure full compliance with health & safety legislation
Lead improvements in HSE performance, including accident reduction and risk management
Support investigations and ensure corrective actions are closed out
Champion sustainability, wellbeing, and environmental initiativesQuality & Food Safety
Drive an “audit-ready every day” culture aligned with BRC and retailer standards
Collaborate with the Head of Technical to deliver the site’s safety strategy
Lead GMP and quality processes, working closely with QA teams to eliminate defects
Actively participate in and lead customer and regulatory auditsService & Delivery
Oversee production planning to deliver operational targets
Align closely with Supply Chain and Logistics to ensure material availability and timely dispatch
Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks
Lead responses to operational disruptions, ensuring clear communication and directionCost Management
Own labour, materials, and overall site cost performance against budget
Develop operational budgets and capital investment plans
Lead capital projects to improve safety, quality, and efficiency
Drive cost control initiatives, including overtime, agency usage, and shift optimisation
Maintain oversight of engineering spend and performanceContinuous Improvement
Lead the development and delivery of the site CI strategy
Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to drive efficiency
Improve asset utilisation through effective preventive maintenance (PPM)
Build a culture of continuous improvement at all levelsStrategic Leadership
Develop and execute the manufacturing strategy aligned to business growth
Lead multi-functional teams including Manufacturing, Engineering, CI and Hygiene
Build and develop high-performing teams and leadership capability
Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and operational excellence
Ensure the site is equipped with the right people, systems, and processes for future growth
Contribute to senior leadership decision-making and overall business strategyReporting & Stakeholder Engagement
Deliver regular performance reports (weekly, monthly, annual)
Represent manufacturing during audits, customer visits and inspectionsAbout You We’re looking for a highly capable and driven operational leader who can deliver results in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

Skills & Experience
Proven senior leadership experience in food manufacturing or FMCG
Strong track record of improving operational performance and efficiency
Deep understanding of food safety, quality standards, and HSE requirements
Commercially aware with strong financial and budget management skills
Experience leading capital projects and managing engineering functions (desirable)
Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
Strategic thinker with the ability to execute operational plans effectively
Resilient decision-maker in fast-moving, complex environments
Excellent leadership and people development skills
Strong communicator with influence across all levels—from shop floor to boardroom
Data-driven with strong IT and KPI performance management capabilityWhy Join Us?
Be part of a growing, well-invested business with ambitious plans
Play a key leadership role with real influence on company strategy
Work with a strong customer base including major UK retailers
Lead impactful change in a fast-evolving and dynamic environmentApply Now If you’re an experienced manufacturing leader ready to make a significant impact, we’d love to hear from you