At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise manufacturing operations while driving change and building high-performing teams.
- Company: Join a leading UK manufacturer experiencing significant growth and transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health insurance, and the chance to shape a growing business.
- Other info: Immediate interviews available; apply now to join an exciting journey!
- Why this job: Be a pivotal leader in a dynamic environment with real impact on operations and culture.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in manufacturing, especially in people-led environments.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 € per year.
Butler Rose Senior Leadership are delighted to be retained on behalf of our client to appoint into a brand new role of Head of Operations, joining their Senior Leadership Team at their site on the outskirts of Lancaster. This is a pivotal appointment at a time of significant growth and transformation. The business holds the largest market share in the UK within its specialist field and is experiencing sustained growth of 10–15% per annum. Be part of the journey as they continue to evolve for the future in this very exciting local operation.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Head of Operations will take full responsibility for a complex manufacturing operation, leading 3 direct reports and a wider team of c.55 employees. We are seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking leader who thrives in a growth environment and is passionate about driving operational excellence, leading change, and building high-performing teams. This is a people-heavy, non-automated manufacturing environment, where success will come from being visible, hands-on, and truly embedded with the team on the ground. Leadership here is about presence, engagement, and bringing people on the journey. Culture is at the heart of this organisation — the Senior Leadership Team embodies collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to success. This role is critical in continuing to build and strengthen that culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability
- Drive operational excellence across production, logistics, and material flow
- Own and manage the operations budget with a focus on performance and cost control
- Deliver strategic projects, process improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and regulatory standards
About You
- Proven experience operating at senior leadership / director level within manufacturing
- Background in medical devices, optical, precision engineering, or complex manufacturing environments (essential)
- Demonstrated success in people-led manufacturing environments (non-automated)
- A hands-on, visible leader who thrives on engaging with teams and driving performance through people
- Strong track record of leading change and delivering operational transformation
- Experience across production, supply chain, facilities, and operational systems
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 and Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
- Degree-qualified in a relevant discipline
Package & Benefits
- Salary: £65,000+ DOE
- Health insurance
- Opportunity to shape and influence the future direction of a growing business
- Senior leadership exposure with real impact
This role is live and ready to interview immediately, so we encourage early applications. All applications are being managed exclusively by Lindsey Tremble, Director at Butler Rose. Suitable applicants will be contacted directly and guided through the process with full confidentiality maintained.
Head of Operations in Lancaster employer: Butler Rose
Join a leading manufacturing company in Lancaster that prioritises a collaborative and engaging work culture, where your leadership will directly influence the future of a rapidly growing business. With a commitment to operational excellence and employee development, this role offers a unique opportunity to be hands-on in a people-centric environment, driving transformation while enjoying competitive benefits such as health insurance and a salary starting at £65,000. Be part of a team that values accountability and shared success, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing sector, especially those who know the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company's culture and values. Since they value collaboration and accountability, think of examples from your past that showcase these traits. We want to see how you fit into their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on leadership style during interviews. Share stories about how you've engaged with teams on the ground and driven performance through people. This is key for a role like Head of Operations!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream job.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience in manufacturing and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive operational excellence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your hands-on leadership style can contribute to our culture of collaboration and accountability.
Showcase Your People Skills:Since this role is all about engaging with teams, make sure to include examples of how you've successfully led people in previous roles. We want to see your ability to build high-performing teams and drive change!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Butler Rose
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's operations. Understand their manufacturing processes, key challenges, and how they maintain quality and efficiency. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in their business.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach, especially in a people-heavy environment. Share specific examples of how you've engaged teams, driven performance, and led change in previous roles. Highlighting your hands-on style will resonate well with their culture.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Since the role involves driving operational excellence, come armed with examples of successful process improvements or strategic projects you've implemented. Discuss your familiarity with Lean/Six Sigma methodologies and how you've applied them to achieve tangible results.
✨Align with Their Culture
The company values collaboration and accountability, so make sure to express your commitment to building a strong team culture. Talk about how you've fostered collaboration in past roles and how you plan to strengthen their existing culture as Head of Operations.
