Production Manager - Newbury

Forterra plc; Newbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Forterra - Newbury (Thermalite), Enterprise Way, Thatcham, West Berkshire, United Kingdom Req #491

28 March 2025

We are currently looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our Newbury team in the position of Production Manager.

The position provides Production Management control of the Newbury Factory and personnel being responsible for meeting budget requirements, driving through OEE Improvements, reporting, efficient and timely production, including Health and Safety, Quality, Maintenance, Environmental/Energy controls, and Stewardship of the assets under control of the works.

Your duties would include but not limited to the following:

• Plan, co-ordinate and manage all site activities in a safe, efficient, and effective manner.
• Manage the H&S aspects of the operation to meet and/or exceed legislative requirements and Company standards.
• Develop and manage improvements in the capabilities and competencies of all staff to deliver improved operational performance in all areas.
• Develop and implement new and improved operational practices in all aspects across the site to deliver OEE improvements.
• Control and manage operating costs within all areas so that KPI targets are achieved or exceeded.
• Develop/implement opportunities for cost reduction and minimisation of waste.
• Liaise regularly with other parts of the business to ensure we maximise site performance. This to include commercial, supply chain, logistics etc.
• Undertake any relevant training as requested.
• Oversee the management of all HR related activities; this includes sickness absenteeism, lateness, and discipline, ensuring that consistency is achieved.
• Manage monthly reporting data for accounts function.

About You:

• A Self-motivated individual with a manufacturing background.
• Experience in a fast-moving building materials environment would be an advantage, but not essential.
• The job holder will have had previous Operational Management experience.
• The role requires a high level of contact with internal/external departments and key customers therefore the job holder needs to have excellent communication skills and be able to develop good working relationships.
• The role requires effective resource management skills to ensure efficient operation of the process.
• The job holder needs to be able to combine production and operational capabilities and implement continuous improvement activities to deliver/exceed budget expectations.
• The applicant would ideally be NEBOSH qualified; however not having this would not necessarily exclude a potential candidate.
• The applicant would have experience in Lean Management.
• Relevant Management Qualifications and operational experience.

What We Can Offer You:

• Competitive Salary and Benefits package.
• Life Assurance and Company Pension Scheme up to 10% employer contribution.
• Gym benefit and Cycle 2 Work Scheme.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme for self and family members.
• Employee Referral Scheme.
• Service Awards.
• Holiday Exchange Scheme.
• Financial Wellbeing Program.
• Personal development and opportunities for progression.
• Company Annual Bonus Scheme.

We are a leading manufacturer of a diverse and trusted range of concrete and clay building products used extensively within the construction sector, with instantly recognisable brands including Thermalite block, Bison Precast and the iconic London Brick.

Our complete product range comprises of clay bricks, aircrete blocks, aggregate blocks, precast concrete, flooring products, permeable paving and chimney, roofing, and flue systems.

Forterra’s purpose is to build lasting legacies, manufacturing a range of products from the ground up to support customers with their construction projects.

We are proud to be at the forefront of the industries’ safety standards and are committed to achieving zero harm in our workplaces.