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- Tasks: Lead operational performance improvement in a high-growth manufacturing environment.
- Company: Dynamic UK manufacturer of large-scale capital equipment with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and opportunity to drive significant change.
- Other info: Onsite role in West Yorkshire with potential for permanent or interim appointment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in transforming operations and enhancing productivity.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in capital equipment or complex manufacturing leadership.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are working with a high-growth UK manufacturer of large-scale capital equipment that is entering a significant phase of operational expansion and transformation. The business designs, manufactures and services complex, high-value engineered products for critical infrastructure and industrial customers. With a strong order book, ambitious investment plans and increasing demand across its core markets, the company is now looking to appoint an Operations Director / COO to lead the next stage of manufacturing performance improvement.
This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who has operated in capital equipment, heavy engineering or complex engineered product manufacturing. Relevant backgrounds could include power generation equipment, electrical equipment, switchgear, turbines, rotating machinery, industrial systems, large engineered assemblies or other high-value, low-volume manufacturing environments.
The successful candidate will take full accountability for operational performance across manufacturing, supply chain, procurement, quality, H&S and related functions. Key priorities will include improving productivity, quality, on-time delivery and operational efficiency; strengthening supplier performance; leading capital investment programmes; embedding LEAN / continuous improvement; and building the operational capability required to support future growth.
We are looking for a proven manufacturing transformation leader who can combine strategic thinking with hands-on execution. You will need to be credible at Board level, comfortable working in a private equity-backed or investor-led environment, and able to communicate clearly, transparently and constructively with senior stakeholders.
Key experience required:
- Senior operational leadership in large-scale capital equipment, heavy engineering or complex manufacturing
- A track record of delivering operational transformation and measurable performance improvement
- Strong knowledge of LEAN, Six Sigma, continuous improvement and modern manufacturing methodologies
- Experience leading supply chain, procurement, quality, H&S and manufacturing teams
- Delivery of major capex, factory improvement, ERP/MRP or strategic operational programmes
- Ability to lead in a high-accountability environment with clear, data-led reporting
- Strong emotional intelligence, collaboration skills and the ability to build trust across the Board and leadership team
The role is onsite in West Yorkshire and could be appointed on either a permanent or interim basis, depending on the right candidate’s availability and fit. For a confidential discussion, please get in touch.
Operations Director #272270 in Leeds employer: Brightbridge Executive Search
Contact Detail:
Brightbridge Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director #272270 in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for an Operations Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of LEAN and Six Sigma methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles to drive operational transformation. Show them you’re not just a talker but a doer!
✨Tip Number 3
When you get that interview, make sure to highlight your experience with capital investment programmes and factory improvements. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact on productivity and efficiency – numbers speak volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director #272270 in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Operations Director. Highlight your experience in capital equipment and manufacturing transformation, and don’t forget to showcase your knowledge of LEAN and Six Sigma methodologies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this high-impact leadership role. Share specific examples of how you've improved operational performance and led teams in complex manufacturing environments.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! In your application, emphasise your ability to communicate effectively with senior stakeholders and your experience in building trust within teams. This is crucial for a role that requires collaboration at the Board level.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brightbridge Executive Search
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the specifics of large-scale capital equipment and complex manufacturing processes. Familiarise yourself with the company's products and recent projects, as well as industry trends. This will show that you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams through operational transformations. Highlight your strategic thinking and hands-on execution abilities, especially in high-accountability environments. Be ready to discuss how you’ve improved productivity and quality in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Since the company values LEAN and Six Sigma methodologies, be prepared to discuss how you've implemented these practices in your previous positions. Share specific metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your impact on operational efficiency and supplier performance.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Practice how you'll communicate with senior stakeholders during the interview. Think about how you can convey complex ideas clearly and constructively. Show that you can build trust and collaborate effectively with board members and leadership teams, as this is crucial for the role.