At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a team in a fast-paced fresh produce operation.
- Company: Join a growing, people-focused fresh produce business in Ely.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £70,000 plus bonus and wider benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with genuine opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving operations and coaching leaders.
- Qualifications: Strong operational leadership experience in manufacturing, preferably food.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Salary: Up to £70,000
Location: Ely, Cambridgeshire
Benefits: + Bonus and Wider Benefits
Lead the Team. Improve the Operation. Build for the Future.
You’ve led teams in fast-paced manufacturing environments. You know how to improve performance, build accountability and get the best out of experienced people. Now, you’re looking for a role where you can do more than just keep the day-to-day running. This is that opportunity.
We’re searching for an Operations Manager to join a growing fresh produce business in Ely and take responsibility for a sizeable part of its factory operation. You’ll lead five direct reports across the shift structure, with around 80-100 people plus agency labour sitting underneath them. Your focus won’t be to become another Shift Manager. It will be to coach, develop and enable the existing leadership team to take greater ownership of the operation.
At the same time, you’ll have the space to look beyond today. Waste. Yield. Cost. Automation. GMP. Standards. Efficiency. The business wants someone who can identify where improvements can be made and then work with the people closest to the process to make them happen. They’re far more interested in practical results than someone arriving with a textbook full of Lean terminology.
This is also a role with genuine headroom. The position has been created following a review of the operational structure, with succession planning firmly in mind. Over time, you’ll gain greater exposure to the senior leadership team, take more ownership of the operational agenda and have the opportunity to develop towards broader leadership responsibility.
The Operation at a Glance: This is a busy, 24/7 fresh produce operation supplying major UK retailers. The site processes high volumes across multiple wash and packing lines, with a strong operational team already in place. The business is stable, growing and increasingly focused on how it can improve performance, capability and efficiency for the future. The culture is down-to-earth, collaborative and very people-focused. There is no room for ego here.
What You’ll Bring: To succeed, you’ll already have strong operational leadership experience within manufacturing, ideally food or fresh produce. You’ll have experience leading and developing Shift Managers, Shift Leaders or equivalent, with a proven track record of improving performance through people. You’ll also bring practical continuous improvement experience across areas such as waste, yield, cost, efficiency and standards. Most importantly, you’ll be measured, collaborative and comfortable in your own skin. Someone who knows how to get things done without needing to be the hero.
Corvin Fox is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our mission is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams. We celebrate difference and encourage candidates from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Whilst we aim to respond to all applicants, there are times where this is not possible due to the high number of applicants we receive. If you haven’t heard back from us within 10 working days of your application, you have unfortunately been unsuccessful.
Operations Manager employer: Corvin Fox
Join a dynamic and growing fresh produce business in Ely, where your leadership will directly impact operational excellence and team development. With a focus on collaboration and practical results, you'll have the opportunity to drive meaningful improvements while enjoying a supportive work culture that values every team member. The role offers clear pathways for career progression, ensuring you can grow alongside the company as it continues to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
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 Corvin Fox, 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 Corvin Fox 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 Corvin Fox
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Corvin Fox, 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 Corvin Fox 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.
