Creating a positive and proactive culture from day one

Production Manager, Stephen Roberts who is leading the launch of our new coffin factory in Knowsley, shares his vision for building a positive team culture, and why supporting bereaved families is at the heart of everything they'll do.

When did you join Co-op and what is your role?

I joined Co-op 3 weeks ago as the Production Manager for our new coffin factory in Knowsley.

Once the site is up and running, I'll be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the factory, supported by our team leaders and our production planner. Right now, my focus is on building the foundations for a successful launch. That includes recruiting our new team, developing training materials, and putting the right health and safety processes in place.

One of my main priorities is creating a flexible, supportive environment where colleagues can develop new skills and work across different areas of the operation. By helping people build their skills and confidence, we'll be able to create a team that's adaptable, collaborative and ready to support each other.

What is your background prior to joining Co-op?

For most of my career, I've worked in the specialist timber industry, helping to grow a business from a small team to more than 60 colleagues over a 20-year period.

Most recently, I oversaw end-to-end production while managing core business operations at a company producing bespoke, high-quality kitchens, media walls and fitted wardrobes.

Throughout my career, I've worked closely with timber and manufacturing, creating products that require skill, care and attention to detail. While this role is different, the same principles apply, plus there is an added importance. Every coffin we make will play an important part in helping families say goodbye to a loved one, and it's important that everyone understands the difference their work makes.

What attracted you to apply for this role at Co-op?

I was already familiar with Co-op and their values. I was quite selective about the opportunities I was considering, and this role stood out because it brought together my experience in timber manufacturing and producing high-quality products.

Sadly, I've also experienced the loss of family members this year and had the opportunity to see first-hand the care and compassion our Funeralcare colleagues provide. The support they gave was exceptional.

That experience reinforced how important it is to work for an organisation that genuinely cares about people. Knowing that the coffins we create, and the services we offer, can help families through one of the most difficult times in their lives made this opportunity particularly meaningful to me.

What's your vision for the new site?

For me, it's about creating a positive and proactive culture from day one. Everyone working at the factory will be contributing to something incredibly important, and I want every colleague to feel connected to that purpose. Creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and listened to will be a key part of that.

Open communication is really important to me. I want colleagues to feel comfortable sharing ideas, feedback and suggestions, helping us continuously improve together.

I'm also keen to strengthen connections between the factory and our wider Funeralcare teams. Our operational colleagues regularly hear from families about the difference they've made, and I'd love our factory colleagues to hear those stories too. Understanding the impact of our work and the comfort it brings to families can be incredibly powerful.

What makes the new coffin factory site different?

Sustainability has been built into the site from the start. The factory will use a biomass system as a renewable energy source, helping us make better use of waste materials while reducing our environmental impact.

What are you most excited about?

The opportunity to launch a new site and build a brand-new team and culture is something I'm incredibly excited about. From the beginning we can create a place and environment where colleagues feel welcomed, enjoy coming to work, supported to develop their skills and feel proud of what they do is really important to me.

I believe everyone should have a voice, and empowered to contribute, and I'll be encouraging open conversations, shared learning and strong teamwork across the site.

Finally, when is the new site opening and when are you looking to recruit?

The new site is expected to open in February 2027.

We're planning to begin recruiting for Production Planner and Team Leader roles in November 2026, with recruitment for Production Operatives starting in January 2027.

If you'd like to be part of the team, keep an eye on our careers website at jobs.coop.co.uk for more information and details on how to apply.