At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational strategy and drive excellence across manufacturing and supply chain.
- Company: Join a dynamic gifting company focused on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Excellent salary package, career development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for strategic thinkers passionate about operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by transforming operations and leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in operations with a focus on transformation and automation.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
About the Role: As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Operations Director will define and deliver the operational strategy in line with the company's growth plans and long-term vision. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence across manufacturing, planning, warehousing, systems, and supply chain functions. The successful candidate will ensure the business operates efficiently, safely, and profitably while remaining scalable, agile, and future-ready. A key focus of the role is leading operational transformation, including automation, systems development, and the digitisation of operations through Industry 4.0 principles and real-time, data-led decision-making.
Key Responsibilities:
- Shape and deliver the operational strategy alongside the Managing Director and Senior Leadership Team
- Translate business strategy into a clear operational roadmap across all functions
- Lead and develop a high-performing operations leadership team
- Drive operational performance across cost, quality, service, efficiency, and delivery
- Champion continuous improvement and operational excellence culture
- Lead automation, systems development, and digital transformation initiatives
- Oversee manufacturing capacity, planning, warehousing, and supply chain performance
- Ensure robust budgeting, forecasting, and operational cost control
- Build data-led performance reporting and KPI governance frameworks
- Develop capability, succession planning, and workforce engagement
- Ensure compliance, safety, sustainability, and risk management standards are met
Person Specification:
Experience and Skills:
- Proven senior operations leadership experience in manufacturing or complex operational environments
- Strong track record of delivering operational strategy aligned to business growth
- Experience leading transformation, automation, or systems implementation
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, including budgeting and forecasting
- Data-driven approach to decision-making and performance management
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central or similar systems (desirable)
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Personal Attributes:
- Strategic, calm, and decisive under pressure
- Inspirational and collaborative leadership style
- Commercially astute with strong judgement
- Highly organised, proactive, and delivery-focused
- Passionate about operational excellence and developing people
Sector: Gifting
Salary: Excellent Package – DOE
Director of Operations in Sussex employer: Cavendish Maine
Cavendish Maine is an exceptional employer that prioritises operational excellence and employee development, making it an ideal place for the Director of Operations role. With a strong focus on innovation and transformation, employees are encouraged to lead initiatives that drive efficiency and sustainability while benefiting from a collaborative work culture that values strategic thinking and personal growth. Located in a dynamic sector, the company offers competitive packages and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment where talent can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations in Sussex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their challenges and think about how you can contribute to their operational strategy. This will show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Operations Director. Highlight your leadership style and how you’ve driven operational excellence in past roles.
✨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 Director of Operations in Sussex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director of Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant operational strategies you've successfully implemented.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; focus on what you’ve achieved in previous roles. Use metrics and examples to demonstrate how you’ve driven operational excellence and transformation in past positions.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We want to see your personality shine through, so let your passion for operational excellence come across!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures that your application is received promptly and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cavendish Maine
✨Know Your Operational Strategy
Before the interview, make sure you understand the company's operational strategy and how it aligns with their growth plans. Be ready to discuss how your experience in leading operational transformations can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Operations, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that highlight your inspirational and collaborative approach. Think about times when you've successfully led teams through change or improvement initiatives.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role emphasises a data-led decision-making approach, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive performance improvements. Discuss specific KPIs you've developed and how they impacted operational success.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills under pressure. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly in manufacturing or complex environments, and how you navigated them effectively.
