Finishing Cell Team Leader (Manufacturing)

Job Title: Finishing Cell Team Leader
Reports To: Production Manager (Primary) – Director of Operations (Secondary)
Salary: £30,000 DOE
Location: Bedford

Purpose of the Role:
The Finishing Cell Team Leader plays a key role in interpreting, organising, and delivering the cell’s production schedule to meet output targets while driving efficiency across operations. This position is responsible for aligning team resources with short- and medium-term capacity plans, ensuring workforce and equipment are optimally utilised. A major focus is to build and sustain a capable, driven, and high-performing team through structured development and a culture of continuous improvement. This role also demands a strong commitment to maintaining excellence in quality, safety, and workplace standards, alongside encouraging accountability at every level.

Main Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the daily and weekly cell schedule to meet production requirements.
• Partner with Area Leaders to maintain a smooth and efficient production flow between departments.
• Oversee workflow management, resourcing, and capacity to adjust to demand fluctuations.
• Identify and escalate potential risks to on-time delivery; expedite high-priority orders where required.
• Track and manage work-in-progress (WIP) using visual tools, ensuring real-time progress visibility.
• Build team capability through cross-training and upskilling to eliminate production bottlenecks.
• Align staffing and operational planning using DSUM methodology and TOC (Theory of Constraints).
• Ensure every team member follows a personal development plan with formalised training structures.
• Address performance issues constructively using tools such as SPL, PDPs, and formal HR processes.
• Act as a role model for professionalism, motivation, and exemplary workplace behaviour.
• Harness team dynamics and individual strengths to boost morale and performance.
• Apply root cause problem-solving and clear communication to resolve process or delivery issues.
• Use line stop protocols effectively to raise and address production problems in real time.
• Escalate urgent program matters through structured communication channels.
• Drive lean practices to enhance process efficiency and shorten lead times.
• Make timely, risk-conscious decisions that support smooth operational flow.
• Lead the team in continuous improvement (CI) activities including CSIP, CAR, EL, SPL, and YIT.
• Allocate time and resources to CI initiatives, promoting team-wide engagement.
• Work alongside Quality functions to manage and mitigate risks from changes.
• Use Right First Time (RFT) metrics to inform and improve performance.
• Perform regular 5S audits, lead GEMBA walks, and maintain exemplary housekeeping standards.
• Immediately report and act on health, safety, and near-miss incidents.
• Eliminate the 8th waste – underutilisation of talent – by empowering staff through development.

Person Profile:

• NVQ Level 3 in Manufacturing or a related field, or equivalent experience leading in a production setting.
• Proven track record of managing teams and operations in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g. Yellow Belt or equivalent certification).
• Confident in interpreting production schedules and managing interdepartmental workflows.

Core Skills & Attributes:

• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to inspire and influence.
• Analytical thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
• Highly organised and adaptable; able to manage changing priorities effectively.
• Competent in using IT systems including Excel, production software, and visual management tools.
• Committed to maintaining the highest standards in safety, quality, and team development.