Kentec Assistant Factory Manager Electronics
Kentec Electronics Ltd, during the last 40 years, has expanded into a major worldwide manufacturer of independent fire control panels. Over time, the Kentec brand has become known for its top-quality products, outstanding service, and exceptional support. Headquartered in Dartford, Kent, Kentec has established itself as a global leader, supplying control equipment to more than 90 countries across the world in multiple languages.
As part of the Hochiki Corporation – one of the world’s most established and respected fire detection and life safety manufacturers, with over 100 years of history – Kentec is proud to have been a valued member of the Hochiki family for the past 13 years. This partnership has strengthened our position in the global market, enabling us to deliver world-class fire control panel solutions backed by decades of innovation, quality, and reliability. Our shared values and long-standing collaboration continue to drive progress, excellence, and customer trust across the industry.
Job Purpose
To support the Factory Manager in overseeing daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets, quality standards, safety requirements, and efficiency goals are consistently met. The role involves supervision of staff, process improvement, and coordination across departments.
Key Responsibilities
Production & Operations
- Assist in planning, coordinating, and monitoring daily production activities
- Ensure production targets, KPIs, and delivery schedules are achieved
- Monitor workflow, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements
- Support process optimisation and lean manufacturing initiatives
Team Management
- Supervise production staff, team leaders, and shift supervisors
- Support recruitment, training, and development of factory personnel
- Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback
- Promote a positive, high-performance work culture
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all health & safety regulations and company policies
- Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and toolbox talks
- Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions
Quality Control
- Work closely with Quality team to maintain product standards
- Ensure adherence to quality systems (e.g. ISO standards where applicable)
- Support root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions
Maintenance & Equipment
- Assist with planning preventive maintenance schedules
- Ensure machinery is operating efficiently and downtime is minimised
- Liaise with engineering/maintenance teams for repairs and upgrades
Continuous Improvement
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, 5S)
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and safety
- Support implementation of new systems, processes, and technologies
Skills & Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving ability
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes
- Data-driven decision-making and analytical skills
- Effective communication across all levels
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Qualifications & Experience
- 5 years manufacturing / Production lines
- Previous supervisory or team leadership experience
- Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Production output vs target
- Quality defect rates
- Health & safety metrics (incident rates)
- Equipment downtime / OEE
- Labour productivity and efficiency
- Cost control and waste reduction
Working Conditions
- Based in a factory/manufacturing environment
- May require shift work, overtime, or weekend support
- Exposure to noise, machinery, and industrial conditions
Reporting Line
- Reports to: Factory Manager
- Direct Reports: Supervisors / Team Leaders
Job Specifics
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Working hours: Monday-Thursday: 08:00-16:30, Friday: 08:00-15:30
- 24 days holiday, in addition to bank holidays, increasing with the years of service.
- Employee Assistance Programme (Wisdom)
- Unlimited access to 24/7 GP and wellbeing experts (Metlife)
- Support for Loved Ones during difficult times (Everest)
- Financial well-being scheme (Salary Finance)
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Enhanced workplace pension
- Enhanced parental leave
- Free Mental Health First Aid courses (M.H.F.A.)
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to work scheme
- Internal Trainings
- Company Events
- Long Service Awards
- Employee benefits, discounts and perks (Kencheck)
- Volunteer with a charity of your choice for a day each year
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