About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is about managing a large manufacturing facility, focusing on safety, quality, and operational efficiency. You'll lead a team of 200-500 people, driving improvements and implementing digital technologies. It's a senior leadership position, not an entry-level or support role.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have extensive experience in manufacturing management, particularly in large-scale operations. Strong leadership skills and a background in driving transformation through digital and lean practices are essential.

Worth noting

The role emphasizes a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence, which may appeal to those passionate about innovation. However, the requirement for a strong commercial focus could be a red flag for those less experienced in financial outcomes.

Job Description

Manufacturing Manager (Head of Manufacturing) – Midlands & Rest of UK

Full Time

Bristol/Derby (Onsite)

Why join Rolls-Royce?

At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere.

By joining Rolls-Royce, you'll have the opportunity to work on world-class solutions, supported by a culture that believes individuality is our greatest strength, and all perspectives, experiences and backgrounds help us innovate and enable our high-performance culture.

At the heart of our operations, manufacturing excellence is fundamental to delivering world-class products and services. We are seeking an accomplished Manufacturing Manager to lead a key facility in the Midlands & Rest of UK, shaping its future through innovation, operational discipline, and inspirational leadership.

This is a pivotal role, responsible for defining and delivering a forward-looking manufacturing vision—harnessing digital capability, data-driven insight, and lean principles to achieve sustained operational excellence.

Key Accountabilities:

Lead a large, complex manufacturing operation of 200–500 colleagues, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and high performance
Hold end-to-end responsibility for Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost across the site
Define and execute the site’s long-term operational strategy, aligned to broader business priorities
Drive transformational change through the deployment of digital technologies and advanced manufacturing practices
Deliver structured, multi-year programmes to improve cost competitiveness and operational efficiency
Embed a culture of continuous improvement, underpinned by lean methodology and disciplined execution
Champion organisational values and behaviours, ensuring they are reflected in everyday performance

What we are looking for:

A proven leader with a strong track record of delivering measurable, sustainable improvements in manufacturing environments
Experience leading large-scale, complex operations with a focus on performance, safety, and quality
The ability to translate strategic vision into operational delivery through effective leadership and stakeholder engagement
Demonstrated experience in driving transformation, including digital enablement and lean adoption
Strong commercial awareness, with a clear focus on delivering financial and operational outcomes
A commitment to developing people, building capability, and leading through values

Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.

Rolls-Royce are committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.

Closing Date: Monday 11th May 2026

As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.

Job Category

Manufacturing

Posting Date

30 Apr 2026; 00:04

Posting End Date

11 May 2026

Aplyr's read

Rolls-Royce is a powerhouse in aerospace and defense, attracting engineers and specialists who thrive on innovation and complex problem-solving.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•Rolls-Royce is a leader in aerospace engineering, providing cutting-edge solutions.
•The company invests heavily in research and development for sustainable technologies.
•Rolls-Royce offers diverse career opportunities across engineering and technical disciplines.

What to watch

•Rolls-Royce faces significant competition in the global aerospace market.
•The company is exposed to cyclical downturns in defense spending.
•Complex regulatory environments can impact project timelines and costs.

Why Rolls-Royce

•Rolls-Royce has a strong heritage in engineering excellence and innovation.
•The company is a pioneer in developing sustainable aviation technologies.
•Rolls-Royce's integrated solutions approach sets it apart in the power systems sector.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?