Succession Planning: Preparing Future Manufacturing Leaders

In our recent webinar, Darren McVicker, Managing Director of Vickerstock, shared practical insights on how manufacturers across Northern Ireland can future-proof their business through effective succession planning.

With 30-35% of the manufacturing workforce aged between 50 and 65 and a potential loss of up to 6,000 skilled professionals within the next five years, the sector faces a significant challenge.

To remain competitive, manufacturers need to identify critical roles – the positions that keep operations running – and create a critical skills organisational chart to map expertise and highlight areas requiring development. A proactive approach to knowledge transfer is key. Encouraging employees to understand 20–30% of the responsibilities of the role above them promotes learning, strengthens continuity, and protects valuable expertise. Combined with clear progression pathways, transparent communication, and targeted development plans, this approach helps minimise recruitment costs, boost retention, and build a culture of adaptability and growth.

Practical Steps for Manufacturers –

• Conduct a workforce age and skills analysis to anticipate future gaps.
• Develop a critical skills organisational chart to prioritise key roles.
• Identify potential leaders and provide stretch assignments or project opportunities to build capability.
• Invest in internal talent to sustain long-term succession pipelines.
• Extend succession planning beyond senior leadership to every level of the organisation.
• By investing in people today, manufacturers can secure the talent, skills and leadership needed to thrive tomorrow.

For more information, contact Darren McVicker: Email: d.mcvicker@vickerstock.com Tel: 028 9031 3720

Vickerstock – Succession Planning Presentation[23]