Manufacturing is a dynamic industry that offers diverse career opportunities, from operations and production to quality assurance and supply chain management. With a strong demand for skilled professionals, the sector provides stability, career growth, and the chance to work in an evolving environment. We spoke to our consultants who offer invaluable career insights to help you get the best out of your application.

Hiring managers in manufacturing look for candidates who demonstrate both technical expertise and essential soft skills. Lochlan Morris, Consultant in Operations & Manufacturing, advises,

"If you want to stand out to hiring managers in manufacturing, there are several things you can do. Make sure you tailor your CV to the role you’re applying for and showcase your technical skills, including machinery used, software, and certifications such as Six Sigma. When producing your CV, use examples and include numbers to back up any statements, for example, 'increased efficiency by 20%.' A largely overlooked part of the CV is highlighting soft skills—teamwork, leadership, and communication—all of which make you a highly desirable candidate in the manufacturing sector. Finally, CV layout is very important. Keep your CV organised with clear headings and bullet points, and start with a brief, impactful statement of your experience, goals, and achievements."

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Many job seekers overlook key aspects when applying for roles in food manufacturing and general manufacturing industries. Tracey Fleming, Senior Consultant in NPD, Technical & HR, highlights,

"There are several common mistakes candidates make when applying for roles in the UK food manufacturing industry. A generic CV that isn't tailored to the job can weaken an application, so always align it with the job description. Highlighting your qualifications/certifications towards industry regulations like HACCP, food safety standards, and BRC is crucial, as is showcasing soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Additionally, quantifying career achievements, for example, leading a BRC auditing to an AA+ accreditation, strengthens your application. Addressing these aspects can greatly improve job prospects.”

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Recruiters and hiring managers are increasingly prioritising qualifications and certifications over experience alone. Cian Scully, Consultant in Ingredients & Flavours, notes,

"What I'm noticing lately is that companies are really focusing on qualifications, like degrees and certifications, way more than just experience. Hiring managers are really after people who can prove they know their stuff, especially in commercial roles. My best advice would be to keep learning and building your skills. Take those training courses, get those certifications—anything to make yourself stand out. It'll definitely give you an edge when you're looking for a job."

Tinashe Muvaki, Senior Consultant specialising in Supply Chain & Logistics, gives us insight into how career progression can be achieved in the Supply Chain sector, "

A Supply Chain career offers exciting growth opportunities. You might start in Procurement, Planning, or Logistics functions, learning the ropes in roles like Buyer, Planner, Supply Chain Coordinator or Logistics Administrator. With 4-7 years of experience, you can step into middle management roles, leading teams and making more strategic decisions—certifications like CIPS or APICS CSCP can help. By the senior level (7-12 years), you're likely overseeing combined functions in roles such as Head of Supply Chain or Head of Procurement, setting strategies, and optimising operations. Finally, at the executive level (12+ years), you could shape regional or global supply chains as a Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO) or Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), driving efficiency and innovation.

Building your career in the manufacturing industry requires a strategic approach to job applications. By tailoring your CV, highlighting technical and soft skills, and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your chances of securing a role in this fast-paced and rewarding sector. With continuous learning and a proactive mindset, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in manufacturing.

Our consultants are specialists in the Manufacturing industry, working with household names across the globe, if you are looking to make a step up in your career speak to our team today!

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