Job Description
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead operations within our Bio Resources function, overseeing the safe, efficient and compliant delivery of key treatment and processing activities. This is a critical leadership role, responsible for managing complex, high-risk operational assets in a regulated environment where safety, reliability and continuous improvement are paramount.
You will bring strong, hands-on operational leadership experience, having successfully led both operations and maintenance teams within similarly demanding environments—ideally within FMCG and/or COMAH sites. With responsibility for a large, multidisciplinary team you will ensure that all activities are delivered safely, efficiently and in line with regulatory and performance expectations.
Success in this role will come from a strong capability to operate within a high-hazard environment, underpinned by a deep understanding of process discipline, asset integrity and workforce safety. You will champion a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, using CI methodologies to identify performance gaps, investigate issues, and drive root cause analysis to deliver sustainable solutions.
As a key leader within the business, you will balance operational delivery with strategic thinking—ensuring the site not only meets its current targets but is well-positioned for future demands through innovation, optimisation and strong team development.
Role Accountabilities
- Lead the operation and maintenance of production assets, acting as a site-wide operational leader rather than a purely technical specialist.
- Manage the operations and maintenance budget, ensuring delivery of the financial plan.
- Own asset performance and ensure delivery of the operational business plan.
- Identify and resolve asset performance issues, using internal expertise and wider business support where needed.
- Drive high standards in safety, compliance and operational efficiency, and lead continuous improvement.
- Lead, manage and develop a team of direct reports, including regular 1:1s, performance reviews and ongoing support.
- Identify skills gaps and training needs, and put plans in place to address them.
- Take accountability for site security and emergency readiness.
- Contribute to the wider management team, sharing best practice and supporting improvement initiatives.
- Build and manage key external relationships, including regulators and customers.
- Work closely with internal teams to proactively maintain assets and resolve issues effectively.
- Champion and lead change initiatives aligned to the business plan.
- Ensure a strong balance between cost, performance, compliance and people priorities.
- Drive a proactive maintenance approach, reducing reactive work and improving planning.
The application journey has 4 key stages:
- Our Talent Acquisition will review your CV
- If skills match, we will discuss with our operational teams
- If successful, you’ll be invited to interview
- Interviews are already in our diaries for 23rd, 25th & 26th June and will take place face to face.
- The interview will comprise of a Presentation, Competency Interview and some Technical Scenario based questions.
About Us
Salary - Competitive Salary
Work Type - Onsite
Job Location - Davyhulme Wastewater Treatment Works, Trafford Way, Urmston, Manchester, M17 8DD
Role Type - Permanent
Employment Type - Full Time
Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week
United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.
We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.
We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.
We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.
Benefits
- A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
- A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
- Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
- A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
- MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
- Best Doctors
- Salary Finance
- Wealth at Work courses
- Deals and discounts
- EVolve Car Scheme
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Mental health first aiders
- ShareBuy
- MORE Choices flexible benefits
- Enhanced parental leave schemes
Company benefits
Working at United Utilities
Company employees:
Gender diversity (m:f):
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