At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations, drive performance, and develop high-performing teams.
- Company: Established manufacturing business focused on growth and employee investment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence operational strategy and champion continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in a thriving environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing leadership and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Operations Manager
Aqumen Recruitment is delighted to be partnering with a well-established and growing manufacturing business in the HX6 area to recruit an experienced
Operations Manager .
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on leader to join a successful organisation that continues to invest in its people, processes, and production capabilities.
The successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational performance, developing teams, and supporting future growth.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the CEO, the
Operations Manager will lead manufacturing operations across a busy production environment, ensuring safety, quality, productivity, and customer service objectives are consistently achieved.
This position offers significant scope to influence operational strategy, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and develop a high‑performing culture across the site.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead day‑to‑day manufacturing and production activities to achieve output, quality, and delivery targets.
- Develop and monitor production plans, ensuring resources are effectively allocated.
- Drive key operational KPIs including OEE, productivity, waste reduction, efficiency, and on‑time delivery.
- Ensure operational procedures and standards are maintained and consistently followed.
- Lead, coach, and develop Production Managers, Shift Managers, Engineering teams, and shop floor personnel.
- Support workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, and performance management activities.
- Foster a positive, engaged, and high‑performance working culture.
- Work closely with EHS, Quality, Supply Chain, and Finance functions to support business objectives.
- Champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles and structured problem‑solving techniques.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance operational performance.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and monthly operational reporting activities.
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have
- Previous experience as an
Operations Manager , Manufacturing Manager, Production Manager, Factory Manager, Plant Manager, or similar senior manufacturing leadership position.
- Proven experience managing teams within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of production processes, operational KPIs, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience driving performance improvements through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar approaches.
- Excellent leadership, coaching, and people development skills.
- Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making capability.
- Experience working with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing performance data.
- The ability to communicate effectively and influence stakeholders at all levels of the business.
- A proactive, hands‑on approach combined with strong commercial awareness.
Qualifications
Ideally, candidates will hold
- A degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
- Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma qualifications.
- IOSH or NEBOSH certification (advantageous).
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Aqumen Business Solutions, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Aqumen Business Solutions specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aqumen Business Solutions
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Aqumen Business Solutions, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Aqumen Business Solutions value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
