Plant Manager - Paint

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Plant Manager to lead our paint production facility, driving high standards across safety, quality, cost, delivery and people performance. You will plan production and resources, manage and develop the team, monitor performance, resolve operational issues and lead continuous improvement activities. You will also maintain compliance with health, safety, environmental and quality standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

Responsibilities

• Leading and developing the Paint production team to deliver exceptional performance across safety, quality, cost and delivery.
• Planning production schedules, resources and labour requirements to maximise productivity and meet customer demand.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve efficiency and maintain high‑quality standards.
• Ensuring compliance with health, safety, environmental and quality requirements, including ISO standards and paint process regulations.
• Monitoring operational performance, resolving production challenges and implementing effective recovery plans.
• Managing stock, consumables, equipment maintenance and plant resources to support production targets.
• Coaching, developing and motivating team members to build capability and promote a positive team culture.
• Working collaboratively with internal stakeholders to deliver business objectives and customer expectations.

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience within a manufacturing, production or workshop environment.
• Strong knowledge of industrial paint processes, airless paint systems and two‑pack coatings.
• Experience with blast and paint booth operations.
• A solid understanding of health, safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Experience managing performance, employee relations and team development.
• Excellent communication, problem‑solving and organisational skills.
• A hands‑on leader who can motivate teams and drive continuous improvement.
• Relevant management or production qualifications, with experience in a similar role.

Benefits

• 25 days' annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part‑time employees and employees working a 4‑day week)
• Enhanced pension and life assurance: we contribute 5% of your salary into our pension scheme and provide life assurance cover of five times your basic salary
• Enhanced family leave policies: support for life's important moments through our family‑friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption and other family leave provisions
• Health and wellbeing support: company‑funded Health Shield Medical Cash Plan, GP Anytime service, Occupational Health support and health surveillance
• Employee support services: access to our Employee Assistance Programme and Care Concierge service, providing practical, emotional, financial and wellbeing support when you need it
• Career development opportunities: from role‑specific training and apprenticeships to leadership and management development programmes, we're committed to helping our people learn and grow
• Cycle to Work scheme: save on commuting costs while supporting a healthier lifestyle
• My Benefits platform: access discounts on shopping, travel, entertainment, health and wellbeing services, and more
• Free independent mortgage advice: expert guidance to help you make informed financial decisions

Pay

Salary: Between £45,000 - £65,000 per annum (DOE)

Schedule

Hours: 37 hours per week, between 06:30 – 16:00 Monday to Thursday