Production Manager

Production Manager | Bridgwater | £55,000
Location: Bridgwater, Somerset
Shift Pattern: 2 Days / 2 Nights (12-hour shifts)
Salary: £55,000 + Benefits

About the Employer

Our client is a privately owned UK manufacturer of technical fabrics supplying into sectors including Medical, Industrial, and Nicotine. Their clients include well-known names such as the NHS, MOD, and global food chains. With over 225 employees across three sites, they are currently restructuring operations and centralising production at their Bridgwater facility.

This business is on a clear and ambitious growth journey—aiming to double in size every three years, upgrade machinery, and build a future-focused team. It's an exciting time to join a well-established manufacturer that blends a strong family ethos with serious career opportunities.

The Role: Production Manager

As Production Manager, you’ll be one of four leaders on a 24/7 manufacturing site, directly overseeing 4–6 Team Leaders and up to 35 Operators on shift. Reporting to the Operations Director, your focus will be on managing end-to-end production, maintaining high standards, and developing your team.

What You’ll Do:

• Manage operational delivery from raw materials to finished goods

• Drive daily performance, ensuring KPIs and quality standards are met

• Promote a culture of health & safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

• Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, HR, and Senior Leadership

• Lead shift operations, handle escalations, and support site transformation

• Coach and develop team leaders to support workforce growth

Tools & Equipment on Site:

• Carding, slitting (fine & standard), and laminating machines

• Conveyors and spray systems

• 30–40 year-old legacy equipment, DC drive systems

What You Bring:

✅ Experience as a Production or Shift Manager in manufacturing
✅ Confident leadership and strong communication skills
✅ Comfortable with continental shifts (2 days, 2 nights – 12-hour shifts)
✅ Knowledge of operational delivery from start to finish
✅ Familiarity with lean manufacturing, health & safety, and performance management
✅ Sector experience in fabrics, food/FMCG, packaging, or pharmaceuticals is a plus

What’s On Offer:

• £55,000 salary

• 20 shift holidays (increasing to 22)

• Wellbeing app & EAP access

• Free on-site parking, free tea/coffee

• Cycle to work scheme

• Modern on-site facilities including new kitchen and pool table

• Long-term opportunity in a growing and evolving business