Production Team Leader

About the role

We are seeking a hands‑on Production Team Leader to manage an operational cell at our Sunderland site. You will drive continuous improvement, uphold safety and quality standards, and develop a high‑performing team in a fast‑paced, engineering‑focused environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and train a production team on the shop floor.
• Champion safety practices and intervene to correct unsafe behaviours.
• Maintain and improve product quality and compliance.
• Implement continuous‑improvement initiatives, including Lean and 5S.
• Monitor cell performance and drive productivity gains.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to meet delivery targets.

Required profile

• Proven experience directing teams in a manufacturing or production setting.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent planning, time‑management and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proactive safety mindset with a track record of promoting safe work environments.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and Lean principles.

Required skills

• Lean methodology (5S principles)

What we offer

• Competitive salary up to £40,000 per year.
• Monday‑to‑Friday day‑shift schedule.
• Opportunity to work on high‑spec projects for elite clients such as Formula 1 teams and defence organisations.
• Access to training and development within Unipart’s operational framework.
• Direct impact on shop‑floor culture and performance.