Head of Polishing

Head of Polishing – Sunderland
Salary: From £30,000 per year
Employment type: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• On-site parking

About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced Head of Polishing to lead our paint shop and finishing department. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who takes pride in exceptional standards, enjoys developing a team, and is passionate about creating flawless finishes.

You will work with a skilled team ranging from apprentices to highly experienced craftsmen, guiding and supporting them to achieve the highest quality results.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, support, and develop a team of polishers at all skill levels
• Manage workflow, set priorities, and ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality
• Take ownership of finish quality, inspecting and signing off work with attention to detail
• Drive improvements in polishing techniques, processes, and efficiency
• Maintain and troubleshoot equipment safely and effectively
• Champion health and safety standards, including proper use of PPE and materials
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth production flow

Skills & Experience Required:

• Proven experience in polishing, finishing, or spray operations in furniture, joinery, or manufacturing
• Experience leading or mentoring a team
• Exceptional eye for detail and pride in high-quality finishes
• Strong understanding of materials, coatings, and finishing techniques
• Proactive problem-solving mindset
• Confidence managing workflow, priorities, and deadlines in a production environment
• Collaborative approach with strong communication skills

Opportunities for Innovation:

• Transitioning to water-based paint systems
• Exploring new finishes such as metallics and specialist effects
• Continuously improving quality and efficiency through smarter processes

Why Join Us:

• Permanent, full-time leadership role in a stable, growing business
• Shape and develop a key department
• Lead a skilled, committed team that takes pride in its work
• Opportunity to implement new ideas and make a visible impact
• Satisfaction of seeing your team’s craftsmanship in high-quality finished produc

INDNC