Production Manager

Production Manager – Additives, Chemicals, Polymers & Dispersions

Location - Cheshire, full time on site

Our client is a leading manufacturer and blender of additives and chemicals for polymer applications with a range of end markets. They are currently experiencing significant growth, evolving business processes, and undergoing cultural transformation into a world class manufacturing operation.

They are seeking an experienced Production & Planning Manager to lead, plan, and manage day-to-day production and scheduling activities at their manufacturing site. This is a key operational leadership role responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective production operations while delivering output in line with customer demand and business objectives.

You will lead a team of production operators and work closely with EHS, Quality, Technical and Sales to ensure alignment across functions. The role requires strong leadership capability, a proactive approach to continuous improvement, and the ability to make informed operational decisions.

• Deliver production output in line with agreed plans, quality standards, and customer demand
• Lead, manage, and develop production teams to drive performance and engagement
• Develop and manage daily and weekly production plans and schedules
• Monitor KPIs including output, OEE, yield, and ATP performance
• Ensure compliance with Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Quality, Technical, and EHS teams
• Identify risks, bottlenecks, and implement corrective and preventative actions
• Drive & implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S, or similar methodologies
• Ensure accurate reporting of production performance
• Support audits, inspections, and internal reviews as required

• Proven experience in a Production Manager or similar leadership role within a manufacturing environment
• Strong people management and leadership capability
• Experience in production planning, scheduling, and operational control
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety, Quality, and Environmental requirements
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to analyse data, manage priorities, and make effective decisions
• Must have the right to work in the UK. Our client is unable to support visa sponsorship

• Degree or professional qualification in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, or related discipline
• Experience working with Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or Six Sigma methodologies
• Knowledge of ISO 9001/14001/45001, GMP, or other relevant Quality Management Systems
• Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment

• Must be within commuting distance to their North Cheshire base.

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Pension plan.
• 23 days holiday entitlement.
• Private medical insurance
• Bonus scheme – Discretionary Christmas & mid-year bonus scheme
• Life cover providing life assurance equal to four times basic annual salary
• Opportunities for personal development and career progression

This is an exciting leadership role, where you can make a real impact and be a part of the continued growth and success of a leading manufacturer.