Working for a leading chemical manufacturing company based in Newton Aycliffe offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and innovative team at the forefront of materials development. The site is known for its commitment to high-quality production standards, continuous improvement, and sustainability initiatives. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment, opportunities for career progression, and the chance to contribute to products that have a real-world impact across various industries. Its location in Newton Aycliffe also provides a strong community feel, excellent transport links, and a balance between professional and personal life.
- Job Reference: 48641
- Salary: £50,000-£60,000
- Discipline: Leadership & Senior Exec Appointments
- Location: Newton Aycliffe
- Contract: Permanent
- Skills: Production Manager
Job Title: Production Manager
Location: Newton Aycliffe
Salary: £55,000-£60,000
Benefits:
9% employer pension contribution through salary sacrifice
Bonus scheme
26 days plus 8 bank holidays
Life insurance covering you up to 6x your salary if you have financial dependants
Discounted BUPA membership for you and your family
Online discount portal to save money with retailers used in everyday life
The Company:
Theo James Recruitment is proud to bring to market an exciting Production Manager opportunity through our dedicated Executive and Leadership Search function. This role sits within a global leader in the polymer and chemical manufacturing sector, based in the North East. The successful candidate will join a dynamic leadership team, working closely with other senior stakeholders to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across the site. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking business that not only leads in its field but also places a strong emphasis on people, culture, and long-term development — making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
Working Hours: Day shift
Job Description:
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Leading a High-Performing Team: Inspire, support, and develop a large production team, aligning them with site strategy while promoting a culture of accountability, coaching, and continuous growth.
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Driving Operational Best Practices: Own and evolve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), bringing structure and consistency to how the plant runs, while embracing new technologies and digital improvements.
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Building Skills and Capability: Ensure all operators are fully trained, competent, and supported through clear development plans and robust validation processes that uphold industry-leading standards.
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Planning for Performance: Work closely with the supply chain to align resources with production demand, adapt to changing priorities, and make sure production targets are consistently met.
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Maintaining a World-Class Environment: Champion high standards in housekeeping and equipment condition, embedding 5S principles and initiating Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) improvements.
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Reducing Downtime and Improving Efficiency: Use data-driven insights and SMED analysis to minimise changeover times, reduce human error, and trial new methods that drive faster, smarter production.
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Owning Cost Control: Keep a close eye on overtime, waste, and consumables, ensuring targets are met and budgets are maintained without compromising on quality or output.
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Optimising Stock Management: Lead inventory control efforts to ensure optimal stock levels and accurate reporting, while maintaining a clean, efficient and audit-ready production environment.
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Engaging with Customers: Represent the production team during site audits or customer visits, and support complaint investigations with robust root cause analysis and process improvements.
Skills & Experience:
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Proven leadership experience in a fast-paced production or process environment.
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Strong knowledge of operational best practices, including lean manufacturing, SOPs, 5S, TPM and SMED
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A track record of building and developing high-performing teams
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Excellent problem-solving skills, with confidence in root cause analysis and driving continuous improvement
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Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills – able to influence, coach and collaborate across all levels
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Ideally, experience managing production in a regulated environment.
Why Should You Apply?

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