Plant Manager

Our client is a leading UK manufacturer specialising in products for the landscaping, horticulture and forestry sectors. They focus on developing environmentally responsible solutions, usually fully recycled and plant based materials wherever possible.

They are seeking a skilled and experience Plant Manager to join their dynamic and growing business.

THE BENEFITS:
Company pension, private medical insurance

THE ROLE:
The Plant Manager is responsible for leading the plant''s core functions - Production, QHSE, Engineering, and Warehousing - to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable operations. This role requires a leader who combines strong organizational and analytical capability with hands-on operational support. The Plant Manager will establish clear systems, standards, and performance structures while supporting department managers in executing their daily responsibilities effectively.
A key focus of the role is to drive efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and reduce operational costs through process improvement, disciplined execution, and data-driven management.
Leadership & Execution Support
- Lead and support the Production, QHSE, Engineering, and Warehousing Managers to deliver operational results.
- Provide the tools, systems, and guidance necessary for each team to execute effectively and consistently.
- Balance strategic oversight with practical, day-to-day involvement to ensure plans are implemented successfully.
- Promote alignment, clear priorities, and strong cross-functional collaboration.
Systems, Standards & Organizational Development
- Develop and implement consistent operating procedures, standards, and reporting systems across all departments
- Introduce and maintain company developed management systems (Odoo, Checkpoint, maintenance, quality, safety) to improve communication, visibility and control.
- Establish and document operational routines, ensuring discipline and consistency across all departments.
- Promote structured, data-based decision-making and accountability throughout the plant.
Efficiency, Cost, and Performance Management
- Establish and govern operational efficiency programs aimed at improving productivity, reducing waste, and lowering costs.
- Monitor and analyze performance data to identify cost drivers and improvement opportunities.
- Develop and track KPIs for efficiency, throughput, downtime, and cost performance.
- Work closely with department managers to implement improvement actions and verify results.
QHSE & Compliance
- Maintain a strong focus on safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory and company standards.
- Oversee QHSE performance and ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.
Project & Continuous Improvement
- Lead and support in key plant improvement projects.
- Provide structure and follow-through to ensure projects are implemented effectively and sustainably.
- Apply Lean principles, problem-solving, and data analysis to drive measurable results.
- Ensure initiatives are well-structured, resourced, and delivered on time.


THE CANDIDATE:
- Bachelor''s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related discipline.
- 7-10 years of experience in manufacturing or plant operations, including leadership of multiple functional areas.
- Proven experience in driving efficiency, productivity, and cost improvement in an industrial environment.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and turn insights into action.
- Experience implementing operational systems and standards (ERP, TPM, Lean, ISO, etc.).
- Balanced leadership style - both strategic and hands-on.
- Analytical, structured, and cost-focused.
- Strong organizational and planning skills.
- Hands-on leadership and execution support.
- Cross-functional coordination and influence.
- Continuous improvement and problem-solving mindset.
- Data-driven and results-oriented.

THE CONSULTANCY:

Edwards & Pearce acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. Edwards & Pearce is an Equal Opportunities Employer.