General Manager
Location: Co. Kildare
Reports to: Managing Director
Our client specialises in delivering high-quality aluminium fabrication and engineering solutions to clients across multiple sectors.
As they continue to evolve and optimise their operations, they are seeking a dynamic and commercially astute General Manager to lead their team through a phase of positive change — driving operational excellence, refining processes, and ensuring our quality standards remain second to none.
Role Purpose
The General Manager will take full ownership of day-to-day operational performance, ensuring the business runs smoothly, efficiently, and profitably.
This role demands a hands-on leader who can:
* Oversee production workflows from order intake to delivery
* Ensure quality control systems are robust and adhered to
* Optimise processes for efficiency and profitability
* Manage client expectations and ensure projects are delivered on time, in full, and to specification
* Lead and develop a skilled team to maintain high performance and morale.
You will play a pivotal role in change management — implementing improved systems, embedding best practices, and fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
1. Operational Leadership & Workflow Management
* Lead the planning, scheduling, and execution of all orders to ensure smooth production flow
* Ensure jobs are correctly scoped, costed, and resourced for on-time and in-full delivery
* Oversee order tracking, shipping accuracy, and delivery performance with minimal waste or rework
* Allocate and organise work effectively among operatives to maximise productivity
2. Quality Management & Continuous Improvement
* Oversee the Quality Control function, ensuring adherence to specifications, drawings, and client requirements
* Implement and maintain robust quality management systems to meet industry standards
* Analyse production errors, rework trends, and client feedback to drive targeted improvements
* Embed a “right first time” culture across the team
3. Process Implementation & Refinement
* Review existing workflows and processes, identifying inefficiencies and bottlenecks
* Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve accuracy, speed, and profitability
* Introduce performance tracking metrics (KPIs) for production, quality, and client satisfaction
* Ensure the back-office and workshop are fully aligned in communication and process
4. People Leadership
* Lead, coach, and mentor the operations team to achieve high standards of work and accountability
* Foster a culture of safety, quality, and ownership across all roles
* Conduct performance reviews, set clear objectives, and address training needs
5. Client & Commercial Oversight
* Ensure pricing of jobs is accurate, competitive, and profitable
* Act as a key point of contact for client communication, ensuring expectations are clearly set and met
* Manage any escalations professionally to maintain client trust and satisfaction
6. Health, Safety & Compliance
* Ensure all operations comply with relevant Health & Safety legislation and company policies
* Conduct regular risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety audits
* Champion a proactive safety culture in the workplace
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven track record in General Management or Operations Leadership in manufacturing, engineering, or a related industry
* Experience in change management and process improvement within a production environment
* Strong understanding of quality management systems and QC best practices
* Skilled in workflow scheduling, job costing, and team leadership
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all levels
* Commercially aware with a focus on profitability and efficiency
* Knowledge of Health & Safety compliance in a manufacturing/workshop setting
What They Offer
* Competitive salary (DOE)
* Fuel Card
* Company Pension Contribution after probationary period (6 months)
* Opportunity to lead change in a growing, quality-driven engineering company
* Autonomy to implement improvements that directly impact profitability and client satisfaction
* Supportive leadership and a collaborative work environment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr