Job Description

The Manufacturing Team Leader will oversee daily operations within a manufacturing environment, ensuring efficiency and adherence to quality standards. This role is based in Leigh and is suited for someone with a background in FMCG.
As the Manufacturing Team Leader you will be responsible for the following;Ownership

• Lead HSE and Food Safety in the RTE Department; drive behavioural safety and food safety culture.
• Ensure the department remains audit?ready for internal and external audits (SML, ERM, BRC, Tesco, and others).
• Complete gap analyses and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Deliver operational KPIs (H&S, GMP, OEE, PVA, Yield, Usage Variance, PRN, labour variance, training metrics).
• Maximise labour efficiency by optimising non?productive time (NPT) and workforce planning.
• Understand performance deviations and implement actions to address underperformance.
• Champion operational excellence, ensuring the team uses Daily Team Review and root?cause tools.
• Build a motivated, high?performing team; support development of team leaders and operators.
• Deliver engagement plans to strengthen team connection and belonging.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping, hygiene, and GMP in line with BRC and customer requirements.
• Plan hygiene activities during NPT to ensure year?round high hygiene and asset care.
• Manage recruitment, induction, and development planning for team members.
• Address performance management issues, including disciplinary processes up to summary dismissal.
• Build strong partnerships with Planning, Engineering, Technical, Finance, Supply Chain, and internal/external stakeholders.

Support

• Support Capex delivery within the department, ensuring risk assessments and work instructions are in place.
• Provide accurate and insightful manufacturing and financial reporting.

Involvement

• Support recruitment and management of Leigh Manufacturing Apprentices.
• Contribute to business?wide system improvement rollout (e.g., ERP and payroll systems).

42,500.1 week off in 4.
A successful Manufacturing Team Leader should have:

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or FMCG environment.
• Have the ability to communicate to, collaborate with and influence people at a range of levels in the organisation
• Demonstrable leadership and have a proven track record for managing and developing teams
• Be trained in Six Sigma Yellow Belt or higher, or be proficient in using CI tools, methodology and willing to train in Six Sigma
• Be highly organised and capable of prioritising a challenging workload to deliver results

This manufacturing site is a major UK producer of ambient sauces, pastes, pickles, and accompaniments inspired by South Asian flavours. The facility combines long?established culinary expertise with modern production methods to supply supermarkets, foodservice partners, and international markets.Located in Leigh, the site operates high-volume mixing, cooking, and filling lines designed for consistency, safety, and efficiency. Specialist processes-such as spice roasting, paste blending, and slow cooking-help preserve the authenticity and depth of flavour associated with its products.The operation includes rigorous quality-control laboratories, robust food safety standards, and a strong focus on continuous improvement. Teams on-site work across manufacturing, engineering, technical, supply chain, and support functions to maintain high production performance and ensure reliable delivery to customers.Sustainability initiatives, community engagement, and employee wellbeing are also key priorities at the site, reflecting its commitment to responsible food production and long-term growth.

• Salary 42,500
• 22 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays.
• Bonus scheme of up to 7%, split between personal and company performance.
• Pension scheme with up to 10% matched contributions.
• Access to a cycle-to-work scheme and onsite shops.

This permanent role offers an excellent opportunity within the FMCG industry. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, apply today!

Skills Required