Area Engineering Manager

Area Engineering Manager – Kemsley Paper Mill

We have an exciting opportunity for an Area Engineering Manager to join our Kemsley Paper Mill and play a key role in driving performance within one of the UK’s largest and most complex manufacturing sites.

In this role, you’ll take full ownership of engineering delivery within your designated area—leading a multi-skilled team to maximise reliability, performance, and continuous improvement. Working in close partnership with Production and other operational teams, you’ll ensure that engineering excellence underpins everything we do. This is a high‑impact leadership position where you’ll combine technical expertise, people leadership, and strategic thinking to deliver safe, efficient, and cost‑effective operations.

• Lead all engineering activities within your area, covering both planned and reactive maintenance
• Drive improvements in asset reliability, availability, and performance
• Ensure full compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental standards, embedding a strong safety culture
• Own and deliver against engineering KPIs, working closely with the Area Production Manager to optimise machine performance
• Identify, scope and deliver engineering improvement projects
• Manage budgets effectively, ensuring cost‑efficient delivery of all activities
• Analyse performance data to eliminate repeat and single‑point failures
• Embed a proactive maintenance approach, with a strong focus on condition‑based monitoring
• Lead the planning and execution of 7‑day maintenance plans and major shutdowns
• Ensure effective breakdown response through strong coordination with shift teams
• Develop your team through regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and structured development plans

• Significant experience in mechanical engineering, ideally within paper, process or heavy industry
• Working knowledge of Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) disciplines
• Proven experience leading and developing multi‑skilled engineering teams
• Strong understanding of maintenance strategies, including planned and condition‑based maintenance
• Data‑driven mindset, with the ability to turn insights into tangible improvements
• Highly organised, structured and able to manage competing priorities
• A proactive, ownership‑driven leader who thrives on continuous improvement
• Committed to building and sustaining a high‑performing, collaborative team culture

• Competitive salary
• Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
• Pension scheme and Life insurance
• Share Save scheme
• Income Protection
• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP, Occupational Health and free Flu vaccine
• Cycle to Work and shopping discounts