Operations Manager in Basildon

40 hours per week, 5 days out of 7 (typically Monday – Friday although flexibility may be required). Permanent role.

Have you always wanted to use your transferable Operations Management skills in a role where what you do can truly make a difference every day? If so, we would love to hear from you! We have a vacancy for an Operations Manager to join our friendly team based at our Head Office workshop in Basildon, Essex. AK Lander has been in the memorial and masonry industry for over 150 years, and with a team of over 20 staff we have an excellent reputation in our field of expertise. Like many of our employees, you might not have considered this industry before; however, with industry training provided and ongoing career development, there are opportunities for you to learn and grow.

The role

You will lead a team of eight direct reports, drawing on your strong leadership skills to foster collaboration across all areas of the business—from the workshop to the office. Your ability to unify teams and maintain high standards of production quality will be key. Given the nature of our work with heavy stone, granite, and specialised tools and equipment, a high level of vigilance is essential. Prioritising health and safety, ensuring all team members are appropriately trained, and maintaining a safe working environment is critical.

Key responsibilities:

• People Management: Lead, support, and develop a diverse team including site staff, production operatives, and admin. Conduct performance reviews, manage recruitment needs, and oversee training and development. Promote strong communication, teamwork, and accountability across departments. Ensure the Westerleigh Group Values (Safety First, Exceptional Care, Uniquely Personal, One Team) are consistently demonstrated.
• Commercial & Profitability: Monitor operational costs and identify areas for savings or efficiency gains. Contribute to pricing strategies and project costings. Drive performance metrics to enhance productivity and profit margins.
• Health & Safety: Ensure full compliance with UK Health & Safety legislation across site. Regularly audit sites, conduct risk assessments, and implement corrective actions. Lead safety training, toolbox talks, and promote a culture of safety across all teams.
• Production & Materials: Oversee the production and scheduling of materials to meet project timelines. Coordinate between supplier, factory, and installation teams to ensure efficient workflow. Maintain quality standards throughout the processing of stone.
• Service Delivery: Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to client specifications. Liaise with clients and project managers to track progress, manage expectations, and address issues. Oversee transport, logistics, and installation scheduling.
• Administration & Compliance: Oversee operational reporting, project documentation, and compliance records. Ensure all administrative processes support operational efficiency and data accuracy. Ensure exceptional client service.

About you

• Experience as an Operations Management / Business Manager / Site Manager role. We are open to experience from a range of different industries as well as from the funeral / bereavement sector.
• People leadership experience (you will have 8 direct reports).
• Good understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation and best practice.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing cross‑functional operations.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Experience of working in a professional working environment.
• Ability to work under own steam but also as part of the team.
• Strong commercial awareness and experience in budget management or cost control.

About AK Lander

At AK Lander, history and heritage are at the heart of who we are. Established in 1866, we have proudly supported families for more than 150 years, crafting memorials that serve as lasting tributes to loved ones. Our work goes far beyond stone — each memorial tells a story, preserves a memory, and becomes part of history for generations to come. We specialise in designing, supplying, and installing high‑quality headstones and memorials, working closely with families to ensure every detail reflects the uniqueness of the life being remembered. From traditional designs to more contemporary styles, our craftsmanship and care ensure that every memorial is both meaningful and enduring. By joining our team, you will become part of this proud tradition. You’ll play a vital role in guiding families through important choices, supporting them with compassion, and helping to create memorials that stand as symbols of love, respect, and legacy. This is more than a job — it’s an opportunity to contribute to history and make a real difference in people’s lives.

What We Offer

If you would like to join the team at AK Lander, you can be sure of a warm welcome, ongoing development and a sense of pride by truly making a difference every day to the families that we serve. In addition to salary, you will also be eligible for the following benefits:

• 33 days holiday (including 8 days bank holiday)
• Life assurance
• Access to a wide range of retail discounts and wellbeing support
• Ongoing learning & development
• Employee Assistance
• Free parking

What next?

Start a career with significance by applying today. We generally advertise vacancies for a minimum of 1 week before reviewing applications. We reserve the right to close the application window sooner if a significant number of applications are received. If you’re not contacted, please assume you have been unsuccessful. Unfortunately, feedback is not always possible due to the volume of applications we receive.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Management, General Business, and Manufacturing

Industries: Consumer Services, Manufacturing, and Construction