At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead site operations, optimise production, and drive continuous improvement in a dynamic aerospace environment.
- Company: Join AEM, part of a global aerospace group with a strong financial foundation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a high-impact leadership role with real operational ownership and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape site performance and culture while working on complex aerospace MRO operations.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in manufacturing, 3+ years in senior leadership, and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take ownership of site operations at our Ramsgate facility. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for operational delivery, financial performance, people leadership, safety, quality and continuous improvement.
Reporting to the Site Lead, you will play a pivotal role in delivering strategic objectives while leading high‑performing operational teams in a regulated aerospace MRO environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operational Leadership & Delivery
- Support the Site Lead in delivering strategic objectives, operational plans and financial results
- Lead site operations to achieve sales, working capital, safety, quality and on‑time delivery targets
- Continuously optimise production planning and scheduling to improve efficiency and throughput
- Identify operational risks and constraints, implementing effective recovery and mitigation plans
- Act as a key operational interface across AEM and with external stakeholders
- Drive effective daily management routines, including CCC / PCC meetings, shift handovers, visual management boards and weekly production reviews
- Financial, Resource & Performance Management
- Develop and sustain robust operational processes that minimise cost and maximise productivity
- Demonstrate strong understanding of operational P&L drivers, including: Labour efficiency and absorption, Overhead control, Working capital management
- Use KPIs, dashboards and visual management systems to drive data‑led decision making
- Identify and manage capital investment requirements supporting growth, compliance and safety
- Maintain high housekeeping and workplace organisation standards across the site
- People Leadership, Capability & Culture
- Recruit, onboard, develop and performance‑manage operational teams
- Maintain accurate competency and skills matrices, succession plans and development pathways
- Provide a visible, hands‑on leadership presence on the shop floor
- Lead teams through change, including process improvement, organisational change and capability growth
- Reinforce AEM values, standards and behavioural expectations
- Build strong cross‑functional collaboration with Engineering & Facilities, QEHS, Stores & Logistics, Customer Support and other support functions
- Safety, Quality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Champion a culture of Continuous Improvement using Lean tools such as: Kaizens, GEMBA walks, 5S
- Drive continuous improvement in site safety performance, proactively addressing hazards and unsafe behaviours
- Ensure full compliance with Quality, Environmental, Health & Safety policies and regulatory requirements
- Ensure operational teams are trained and competent in Part 145 SMS requirements relevant to their roles
Experience & Qualifications:
Essential
- Minimum 8 years’ experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment
- At least 3 years in a senior operational leadership role with direct people and delivery accountability
- Highly developed planning, organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Strong analytical capability and comfort managing complex, fast‑paced operations
- High level of digital competence, including Microsoft 365, ERP systems, Power BI and approved AI tools
Desirable
- Experience within Aerospace or MRO environments
- Degree in Engineering or Business
- Part 145 (CAA / EASA / FAA) knowledge or training
- Lean or Continuous Improvement certification
Why Join AEM / AMETEK?
- Part of a global, financially strong aerospace group
- High‑impact leadership role with real operational ownership
- Opportunity to shape site performance, culture and future capability
- Exposure to complex aerospace MRO operations in a regulated environment
About AEM / AMETEK MRO
AEM Limited was acquired by AMETEK Inc. in 2007 and operates as part of AMETEK MRO’s Aerospace & Defense Division, a globally recognised provider of third‑party Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services. Our Ramsgate facility specialises in the repair and overhaul of landing gear, hydraulic actuation assemblies and heat exchangers, serving commercial, regional, general aviation and military markets worldwide.
Operations Manager employer: AMETEK
AEM / AMETEK is an exceptional employer, offering a high-impact leadership role in the aerospace sector at our Ramsgate facility. With a strong focus on operational excellence and continuous improvement, we foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee development and safety. Join us to be part of a globally recognised team where you can shape site performance and drive meaningful change in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aerospace industry and let them know you're on the hunt for an Operations Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Familiarise yourself with their values, recent projects, and challenges they face in the MRO sector. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you've led teams through change or improved operational efficiency. These anecdotes will showcase your experience and problem-solving skills during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in operational leadership, financial performance, and continuous improvement. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our Ramsgate facility. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved operations in the past.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics and data to demonstrate how you’ve driven efficiency and performance in previous roles. We love numbers that tell a story!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at AMETEK
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of operations management, especially in a manufacturing or aerospace context. Familiarise yourself with key terms like P&L drivers, Lean tools, and safety compliance. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your approach to people leadership and team development. Think of examples where you've successfully led teams through change or improved operational processes. Highlighting your hands-on leadership presence can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle operational challenges. Prepare specific scenarios where you've identified risks and implemented effective recovery plans. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
Since the role involves using KPIs and dashboards, be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. Bring examples of how you've optimised production planning or improved efficiency through data analysis. This will show your analytical capability and comfort with digital tools.
