Head of Manufacturing

Contract Type: Full-time

Company: R&B Switchgear Services Ltd

Location: Heywood OL10 2EX, UK

Salary: Competitive

Since 1985, R&B Switchgear Group have provided world-class power engineering solutions to a diverse client base. Specialising in the design, manufacture, installation, and commissioning of LV and HV switchgear and associated assets, we offer turnkey solutions to some of the world’s largest blue-chip companies.

Together, we welcome and celebrate individual differences as we shape the future of power distribution. Join us in our pursuit of becoming the best-in-class provider of power engineering solutions.

 

We’re looking for a dynamic, results-focused leader to become our head of Manufacturing.

 

YOUR NEW ROLE

As Head of Manufacturing for R&B Switchgear Group, you will be a key member of the Leadership Team, accountable for the success of the LV manufacturing operation. You will advance our technical product and service offerings, organise the team to deliver high-quality low voltage switchgear solutions, and collaborate with the Engineering department on high voltage switchgear production.

You will oversee all manufacturing stages, from quoting to installation, driving efficiencies and LEAN principles to maintain profit margins and uphold our ‘Best-In-Class’ strategy. With strong interpersonal skills and a solution-oriented approach, you will embed HSEQ systems, evolve team structures, and improve purchasing systems.

Your responsibilities include ensuring cost-effective execution of manufacturing activities, setting team goals aligned with the Group’s commercial strategy, and attending key meetings to direct technical excellence. You will promote safety awareness, improve product delivery, quality, and cost, and support the management team in developing a centre of excellence for manufacturing.

You will provide ideas for new working methods, quality control, and commercial opportunities to drive business growth. Strong communication skills are essential for updating project managers and maintaining quality service standards. You will champion the R&B brand, create a positive work environment, and lead by example to galvanise your team.

 

YOUR RESPONSIBILTIES

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Oversee Production, Logistics, Stores, Sales, and Estimating within the manufacturing division
  • Manage the apprentice programme and T Levels in collaboration with the training team.

Technical Duties:

  • Provide technical leadership and drive process improvements using LEAN methodologies
  • Develop a Centre of Excellence for business design growth
  • Standardise systems and processes
  • Ensure design technical compliance and manage design procedures
  • Interpret customer technical requirements and design solutions
  • Lead the adoption of new technologies and design solutions
  • Design electrical power and control systems to meet specifications.

Leadership:

  • Promote company values and culture
  • Oversee the end-to-end production cycle
  • Coach and develop a high-performing team
  • Ensure compliance with HR procedures and support career development
  • Allocate work and develop team skills.

Commercial Responsibilities:

  • Maintain profit margins and drive efficiencies
  • Recommend purchasing and supplier strategies
  • Manage overtime and corrective works to maintain profits
  • Collaborate with finance and leadership to set commercial targets.

 

YOUR SKILLS AND BACKGROUND
  • At least 10 years’ experience in a similar role the electrical engineer industry
  • A record of producing designs & taking concepts through to prototype and final solution
  • Commercial acumen and contract awareness is a must
  • Full driving license
  • Level 3 qualification in Electrical & Electronic Engineering or related subject (Preferred but not essential)
  • Knowledge of applicable systems gained from working in an engineering role, Installation, Service & Maintenance, Commissioning, etc.
  • Experience of designing systems with high levels of integration and convergence.

 

What will you get in return?

As a business we value our people, because it’s our people who set us apart. As a member of our team, you’ll receive a wide range of benefits including;

  • Competitive salary
  • Annual performance-related bonus scheme and pay reviews
  • Bespoke training and career development opportunities including professional qualifications and accreditation
  • R&B is currently trailing a 9-Day Fortnight across the company
  • 33 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
  • Occupational Health Provider
  • Company wellbeing workshops
  • Access to mental health support and counselling
  • Sick pay scheme for those days you need to rest and recover
  • Auto-enrolment personal pension scheme which is matched by the company
  • Employee referral scheme
  • Commission scheme for engineers generating new enquiries
  • Discretionary 2 week paid sick leave allowance after probation
  • Social committee with calendar of regular social events – all paid for by the business
  • Individual recognition and reward schemes including employee of the year celebration
  • Free Parking

We look forward to receiving your application. If you want to discover more about R&B, visit our website www.rbswitchgeargroup.com