Tell us about your job in a nutshell

My role is extremely varied, managing the engineering functions, focussing on continuous improvement.  I oversee maintenance activities to ensure they are undertaken safely, efficiently, and at least cost and disruption to the business. I create, regularly update, and follow a maintenance strategy and formulate clear training and development plans for all engineering staff to ensure they have the most up to date level of competency.

I also manage all engineering spending budgets in line with agreed levels.  At Longcliffe we are continuously looking for ways to increase the efficiency and sustainability of our operations. I lead on this for the engineering function through the creation and monitoring of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs); and I report on progress monthly.

My role also includes the management of our ‘capex’ or capital expenditure, including compiling capex applications for approval and overseeing the implementation of these projects.

 

How has your career developed with Longcliffe?

I’ve been with Longcliffe since 1991 and in this role since November 2023. I started out as an Apprentice Electrician. Once qualified, I then moved through several roles including Chargehand Electrician, Workshop Supervisor, Works Engineer and Operational Improvements Manager, before taking on my current role.

 

What training/qualifications do you have and what are the key skills you need to do your job?

Through my original apprenticeship I gained City and Guilds and BTEC qualifications in engineering with an electrical bias. Then I went on to gain more advanced electrical engineering qualifications including a Higher National Certificate from the University of Derby. I have extended my qualifications in the areas of safety and environmental management and completed an internal course for Longcliffe Leaders, followed by an Improvement practitioner qualification.

I work with people at every level and in every department, so good communication skills are vital.  You need to work well individually and as part of a team, identifying problems and devising innovative, cost-effective solutions.

You have to manage, motivate and develop employees and ensure the teams achieve KPI targets. It’s also important to have excellent organisation and administrative skills and to be proactive.  And number one for me is having the ability to manage the health and safety of everyone involved in carrying out all engineering activities.

 

What do you most enjoy about your job?

Working with the rest of the team at Longcliffe is the best aspect of my job. I also enjoy sharing the knowledge I have gained and coaching colleagues.

Everyday poses new challenges to be resolved and it’s great to know that everyday you’ll be working towards making the business a more prosperous and better place to work.

 

What are your career aspirations?

Currently my focus is on creating an efficient, self-sufficient maintenance department with an effective structure. Longer term I’d like to think I have much to offer in a director role.

 

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a job with Longcliffe?

Longcliffe is a very good company to work for; the workforce is valued highly and it’s very much a family-orientated company. There are lots of training and progression opportunities.  The company offers good benefits and generally everyone knows everyone else - you are not just a number.

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Engineering and Continuous Improvements Manager

Engineering and Continuous Improvements Manager

Tell us about your job in a nutshell

My role is extremely varied, managing the engineering functions, focussing on continuous improvement.  I oversee maintenance activities to ensure they are undertaken safely, efficiently, and at least cost and disruption to the business. I create, regularly update, and follow a maintenance strategy and formulate clear training and development plans for all engineering staff to ensure they have the most up to date level of competency.

I also manage all engineering spending budgets in line with agreed levels.  At Longcliffe we are continuously looking for ways to increase the efficiency and sustainability of our operations. I lead on this for the engineering function through the creation and monitoring of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs); and I report on progress monthly.

My role also includes the management of our ‘capex’ or capital expenditure, including compiling capex applications for approval and overseeing the implementation of these projects.

 

How has your career developed with Longcliffe?

I’ve been with Longcliffe since 1991 and in this role since November 2023. I started out as an Apprentice Electrician. Once qualified, I then moved through several roles including Chargehand Electrician, Workshop Supervisor, Works Engineer and Operational Improvements Manager, before taking on my current role.

 

What training/qualifications do you have and what are the key skills you need to do your job?

Through my original apprenticeship I gained City and Guilds and BTEC qualifications in engineering with an electrical bias. Then I went on to gain more advanced electrical engineering qualifications including a Higher National Certificate from the University of Derby. I have extended my qualifications in the areas of safety and environmental management and completed an internal course for Longcliffe Leaders, followed by an Improvement practitioner qualification.

I work with people at every level and in every department, so good communication skills are vital.  You need to work well individually and as part of a team, identifying problems and devising innovative, cost-effective solutions.

You have to manage, motivate and develop employees and ensure the teams achieve KPI targets. It’s also important to have excellent organisation and administrative skills and to be proactive.  And number one for me is having the ability to manage the health and safety of everyone involved in carrying out all engineering activities.

 

What do you most enjoy about your job?

Working with the rest of the team at Longcliffe is the best aspect of my job. I also enjoy sharing the knowledge I have gained and coaching colleagues.

Everyday poses new challenges to be resolved and it’s great to know that everyday you’ll be working towards making the business a more prosperous and better place to work.

 

What are your career aspirations?

Currently my focus is on creating an efficient, self-sufficient maintenance department with an effective structure. Longer term I’d like to think I have much to offer in a director role.

 

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a job with Longcliffe?

Longcliffe is a very good company to work for; the workforce is valued highly and it’s very much a family-orientated company. There are lots of training and progression opportunities.  The company offers good benefits and generally everyone knows everyone else - you are not just a number.

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