From school leaver to Production Planning Manager – in just 10 years, Seth Clay has built a career he’s proud of at Yorkshire-based textile manufacturer WooltexUK. Seth has worked his way up through training, apprenticeships, and hands-on experience, and is continuing to learn and grow within the business.
Seth Clay | Production Planning Manager
Seth joined the company straight after finishing school and has completed various apprenticeships and training programmes to reach his current role.
Seth began his textiles journey with a Level 3 Textiles Manufacturing Apprenticeship, found through an apprenticeship hiring company. Since then, he has completed a variety of courses, including a Textiles Colouration Certificate, Associateship of Dyers & Colourists (at degree level), IOSH Risk Assessment, and Advanced Excel Training. Seth is currently working towards his Level 5 Management Apprenticeship with Huddersfield University.
Based at the WooltexUK mill, Seth works full-time hours. As Drawing Production Planning Manager, he is responsible for planning the production of materials through the spinning mill. A big part of his role involves analysing production schedules for customer orders to provide accurate delivery dates. He also develops plans for yarn production, orders raw materials, and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Drawing Department.
“As with most mill jobs, every day is different, so being adaptable is really important. A typical day might include checking material stocks, placing orders, and creating production plans. There’s quite a bit of admin too – I’m often doing stocktakes or chasing urgent materials. People outside the textile industry don’t realise how much work goes into making fabrics!” – says Seth
Since joining WooltexUK, Seth has helped set up new dyeing and spinning plants and introduced new computer systems for the company’s spinning mill.
If you’re interested in a role like Seth’s, there are several routes in. Many people start with an apprenticeship in textile manufacturing, production planning, or supply chain operations, which can be found through apprenticeship websites, training providers, or directly with employers. Work experience in a manufacturing or warehouse setting can also help you develop key skills like organisation, problem-solving, and teamwork. Once you’re in the industry, taking additional training or qualifications – like Seth’s management and technical courses – can help you progress into more senior roles.
Right now, Seth is focused on completing his Management Apprenticeship while continuing to oversee the production of premium yarns and fabrics at WooltexUK.
“If you’re interested in a career in textiles, finding a good company to work for is the first step. After that – jump in headfirst, work hard, and don’t look back. My 10 years have flown by, and I have no regrets!”