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- Tasks: Lead operations in a fast-paced SME manufacturing environment, driving performance and improvement.
- Company: Join a dynamic Derby-based team in the Manufacturing and MRO sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits, with opportunities for real impact.
- Why this job: Shape operational strategy and foster a positive, high-performance culture.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in SME manufacturing, strong MRP/ERP experience, and excellent people skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in a collaborative, customer-driven environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: Derby
Sector: Manufacturing / MRO
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Are you a hands-on Operations Director with a passion for driving operational excellence in a fast-moving SME manufacturing environment? We are looking for an exceptional leader to join our Derby-based team, operating in the Manufacturing and MRO sector.
About the Role: Reporting directly to the MD, you will lead all aspects of operations across a complex, multi-process manufacturing environment. From supply chain to production, planning to logistics, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of a growing business. This role needs a mix of strategic thinking and operational "boots on the ground" leadership — someone who can balance data-driven decision making with strong people skills.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and develop the Operations, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing teams
- Drive operational performance across safety, quality, delivery, and cost
- Optimise planning and scheduling processes using MRP systems
- Strengthen supply chain resilience and supplier performance
- Champion Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
- Lead cross-functional problem solving using data and root cause analysis
- Foster a positive, high-performance culture built on trust, accountability, and development
About You:
- Proven Operations leadership in SME manufacturing (MRO sector desirable)
- Strong MRP / ERP systems experience
- Excellent supply chain knowledge across sourcing, procurement & planning
- Analytical mindset with a passion for process improvement
- High emotional intelligence with exceptional people leadership skills
- Lean/CI toolkit knowledge and hands-on experience
- Comfortable in a multi-process, customer-driven environment
- Resilient, adaptable, and solutions-focused
Why Join Us?
- Dynamic SME culture - ability to make real impact
- Collaborative leadership team
- Opportunity to shape operational strategy
If you are ready to lead from the front, drive change, and develop people while delivering operational excellence — we would love to hear from you.
Operations Director - SME Manufacturing employer: 1492 Ltd
Contact Detail:
1492 Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director - SME Manufacturing
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the SME manufacturing sector, especially those who have experience in operations leadership. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific MRP/ERP systems mentioned in the job description. If you have experience with similar systems, be prepared to discuss how you've used them to optimise operations in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your understanding of Lean manufacturing principles by preparing examples of how you've implemented continuous improvement initiatives in past positions. This will show your potential employer that you can drive operational excellence effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company culture and values of the organisation you're applying to. Be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their focus on trust, accountability, and development during any interviews or networking opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director - SME Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in operations leadership, particularly in SME manufacturing. Emphasise your achievements in driving operational performance and any relevant MRP/ERP systems experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for operational excellence and how your hands-on leadership style aligns with the company's needs. Mention specific examples of how you've optimised processes or led teams in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills related to supply chain management, Lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives. Use bullet points for easy readability and to draw attention to your key competencies.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Describe your approach to leadership and team development. Provide examples of how you've fostered a positive culture and driven change within your teams, demonstrating your emotional intelligence and people skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1492 Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Operations Director, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading teams, especially in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Share specific examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
This role requires a strong analytical mindset. Be ready to talk about how you've used data to drive decision-making in operations. Prepare to discuss specific instances where your analytical skills led to process improvements or cost savings.
✨Emphasise Your Experience with MRP/ERP Systems
Given the importance of MRP systems in this role, highlight your experience with these tools. Discuss how you've optimised planning and scheduling processes in the past, and be ready to explain the impact of these optimisations on operational performance.
✨Prepare for Cultural Fit Questions
Cultural fit is key in a dynamic SME environment. Be prepared to discuss how you foster a positive, high-performance culture. Share examples of how you've built trust and accountability within your teams, and how you handle challenges in a collaborative manner.
