Manufacturing Manager

Manufacturing Manager

Chorley (On-site, Monday–Thursday)

The Opportunity

We are supporting a leading engineering organisation in the nuclear sector with the appointment of a Manufacturing Manager. This is a newly created role designed to work closely with the Head of Manufacturing, taking ownership of the day-to-day management of the manufacturing workshop.

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in driving operational excellence, leading high-performing teams, and delivering critical components within a highly regulated, safety-critical environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring delivery against production targets, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
• Lead, coach, and develop Production Team Leaders and shop floor staff
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Manage resources effectively (people, equipment, and budget) to meet programme demands
• Ensure full compliance with nuclear industry standards and health & safety regulations
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, SHE, and Project teams
• Chair monthly production meetings, tracking performance against KPIs
• Support planning activities, ensuring accurate resource alignment with delivery schedules
• Contribute to a culture of accountability, safety, and high performance across the workshop
• Represent manufacturing in internal and external meetings, including audits and programme reviews

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in a manufacturing leadership role within a regulated industry (e.g. nuclear, aerospace, defence)
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, fabrication, assembly, test, etc.)
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma certification (Green Belt minimum)
• Experience working within regulated frameworks (e.g. ISO standards, ONR, ASME)
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools
• Ability to drive performance, manage change, and improve operational efficiency

Desirable

• Degree qualified in Engineering or a related discipline
• Experience managing audits, inspections, and client interactions
• Strong understanding of programme planning tools (e.g. P6)
• Background in continuous improvement and cultural transformation initiatives

Why Apply?

• Newly created role with real scope to shape and influence operations
• Work within a highly specialised, safety-critical sector
• Long-term stability and career progression opportunities
• Collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team

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