At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and oversee a major site relocation in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a growing, privately backed engineering and manufacturing business.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £85,000, autonomy, and a tailored benefits package.
- Other info: Opportunity for high visibility and influence in a fast-evolving business.
- Why this job: Make a tangible impact while shaping the future of a modern facility.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior operations leadership within manufacturing or engineering.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 85000 £ per year.
AtkinsClarke are proud to be supporting a growing, privately backed manufacturing business with the appointment of an Operations Director to lead a recently acquired and evolving operation. This is a hands-on leadership role with full operational and P&L responsibility, playing a critical part in the next phase of growth. A key focus will be leading a major site relocation into a new, state-of-the-art facility while ensuring continuity of production and customer delivery. This role will suit someone who wants genuine ownership, accountability and the opportunity to shape a business.
Responsibilities
- Full ownership of site operations, including production, quality, health & safety and performance
- Leading and delivering the relocation to a new manufacturing facility
- Taking P&L responsibility, including cost control, investment decisions and profitability
- Driving operational improvements through structured KPIs, reporting and performance management
- Implementing and embedding Lean, CI and best practice manufacturing processes
- Leading ERP/system improvements and moving away from manual processes
- Managing and developing a small but experienced team, fostering accountability and performance
- Building strong relationships with key customers and ensuring high service levels
- Overseeing capacity planning, resource allocation and operational scalability
- Managing suppliers, subcontractors and third-party providers
This is a highly visible, business-critical role with the opportunity to make a tangible impact quickly. We’re looking for an experienced and pragmatic operations leader who can balance technical understanding with strong leadership and delivery.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in a senior operations leadership role within manufacturing or engineering
- Strong understanding of precision engineering, machining or complex production environments
- Experience working within regulated sectors (e.g. aerospace, automotive or similar)
- A track record of leading change, transformation or site-based improvements
- Experience managing complex operations, ideally including site moves or facility upgrades
- Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
- A hands-on, solutions-focused approach with the ability to drive accountability
- You will be comfortable operating in a smaller, evolving business where visibility is high and leadership is critical.
About the client
Our client is a specialist engineering and manufacturing business operating within a highly regulated, quality-critical environment.
Benefits
- Salary in the region of Up to £85,000
- Full operational and P&L responsibility
- Opportunity to lead a major site relocation and modernisation project
- High level of autonomy and influence within the business
- Exposure to a strong, blue-chip customer base
- Benefits package to be shaped as the business evolves
EEO and application notes
At AtkinsClarke, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Atkins Clarke Ltd. Our Privacy Policy is available on request and explains how we will use your data.
Operations Director employer: AtkinsRéalis
AtkinsClarke is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can take full ownership of operations and lead significant projects like a major site relocation. With a strong focus on employee growth, autonomy, and the opportunity to shape the future of a thriving manufacturing business, you'll find a culture that values accountability and innovation. Located in a state-of-the-art facility, this role provides the chance to make a tangible impact while working alongside a dedicated team in a highly regulated industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director
✨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 AtkinsRéalis, 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 Director
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 AtkinsRéalis 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 AtkinsRéalis
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with AtkinsRéalis, 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 AtkinsRéalis 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.
