Main Purpose of Job:
The Team Leader is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a production line, ensuring that production targets are met, quality standards are maintained, and health and safety regulations are adhered to. This role involves leading a team of operators, coordinating activities, troubleshooting issues, and liaising with other departments to optimize productivity and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
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Supervision: Lead and manage a team of production operators, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure efficient workflow, satisfactory performance, first-time quality, high morale, and adherence to policies and procedures. Assign tasks and responsibilities to team members based on production needs and individual skills. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting teamwork and employee engagement. Manage staff (including temporary employees), ensuring the correct labor resource is allocated to the line to meet output targets, accounting for holidays and sickness. Manage sickness and absence through Bradford Factor. Ensure new staff (including temporary employees) are trained to expected competency levels. Step in for absent team members during holidays, sickness, or breaks when needed. Ensure that team members are aware of daily/weekly priorities. Build a sense of team on the line. Share key communications with the team.
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Production Management: Oversee the daily operations of the production line, ensuring products are manufactured according to specifications and quality standards. Plan and coordinate daily production schedules, ensuring targets and deadlines are met. Monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. Notify the Supervisor or Production Manager of any issues that prevent the daily plan from being met, ensuring robust corrective actions are implemented. Ensure efficient use of resources, including materials, equipment, and labor. Manage the kitting of required parts and quantities for the line. During FY25-26, ensure team members understand the key areas of Project Beacon: performance, quality, health & safety, and development. Work with the Project Lead and Supervisor to ensure visual factory management (including performance metrics) is implemented according to future plans.
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Quality Control: Ensure that products meet required quality standards by conducting regular inspections and implementing corrective actions when necessary. Ensure all working instructions are in place and correct, highlighting and training on any critical-to-quality aspects. Ensure all individuals are fully trained in processes/products before work assignment. Ensure all equipment, jigs, and fixtures are calibrated (where required) and fit for use. Identify and address defects or issues in the production process, implementing corrective actions as necessary. Manage any non-conforming products by segregating them from the production line and reporting to Quality in a timely manner. Ensure rework items are managed to prevent the possibility of duplicate units, mixed products, or incorrect items being delivered.
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Health and Safety: Maintain a safe working environment by enforcing health and safety policies and procedures. Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments. Ensure risk assessments are in place and maintained, and all operators are trained. Ensure PPE is available and used at all times. Promote a safe working environment, ensuring all hazards and near misses are documented with relevant corrective actions in place.
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Process Improvement: Identify areas for improvement in the production process and implement changes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, decrease defects, eliminate waiting time, and lower costs.
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Troubleshooting: Address and resolve any issues that arise on the production line, including mechanical problems, supply chain issues, and staff shortages.
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Communication: Liaise with other departments, such as Compliance, Supply Chain, and Engineering, to ensure smooth operations and timely resolution of issues.
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Reporting: Maintain accurate records of production data, including output, downtime, and quality issues. Prepare and report daily at Tiered Meetings. Prepare and present regular reports to management.
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Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiency enhancements. Collaborate with other departments to implement best practices and innovative solutions. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of standard operating procedures.
Person Specification:
* Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and inspire others.
* Integrity and ethical conduct in all activities.
* Resilience and the ability to handle pressure and challenging situations.
* Proactive and forward-thinking mindset, focusing on anticipating and mitigating potential risks.
* Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
* Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
* Adaptability and openness to change.
* Excellent organizational and time management skills.
* Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
* Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience/Qualifications/Training:
* Experience: Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment, preferably in a supervisory or leadership role.
* Education: GCSEs or equivalent; additional qualifications in manufacturing or engineering are advantageous.
* Good understanding of health and safety regulations.
* Proficiency in using production management software and tools.
* Detail-oriented and highly organized.
* Proactive and self-motivated.
* Adaptable and open to change