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- Tasks: Lead daily operations and drive performance in a dynamic defence manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a leading defence manufacturing company with a focus on innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, early finishes, generous leave, and strong development opportunities.
- Other info: UK Security Clearance is necessary; apply by 7th May!
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a complex environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations management and continuous improvement methodologies required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager (Integrated Portfolio Team Operations Lead) to oversee and drive the day-to-day performance of key Integrated Portfolio Team (IPT) operations within a complex manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient, and cost-effective execution of operational activity, acting as the bridge between IPT teams and manufacturing/delivery functions. You will contribute to IPT strategy and lead its execution, ensuring that service levels, productivity, quality, safety, and cost targets are consistently achieved. The role operates within a matrix organisation, requiring strong cross-functional leadership across Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, and Industrialisation Engineering teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operational Leadership: Lead daily operations to ensure consistent delivery of products; Own demand and supply alignment across IPT operations; Monitor KPIs and drive improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency; Ensure compliance with internal policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements; Own make-or-buy decisions with input from Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Industrialisation teams.
- People & Team Leadership: Indirectly manage, coach, and develop operational teams in a matrix structure; Oversee planning, scheduling, and resource requirements; Promote a positive, safe, and accountable workplace culture; Support performance reviews, coaching, and identification of training needs; Work closely with Operational Excellence teams to support continuous improvement.
- Process & Continuous Improvement: Identify operational bottlenecks and implement workflow improvements; Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean / Six Sigma methodologies; Ensure SOPs and operational documentation are maintained and up to date; Act as approval authority for Industrialisation Engineering reviews (DFM, DFA, DFL).
- Financial & Resource Management: Manage operational costs and resource utilisation against budget; Support forecasting and capacity planning activities; Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through effective utilisation of people, equipment, and materials; Develop capacity plans for IPT operations.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Support operational readiness for new product or service introduction; Provide operational input to strategic planning activities; Support customer engagement and collaboration where required.
About You:
You will bring: Proven experience in matrix operations management within defence, manufacturing or similar highly regulated environments; Strong understanding of operational processes, workflow optimisation, and performance management; Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Kaizen, Six Sigma); Strong capability in data analysis, KPI management, and reporting; Experience using MRP/ERP systems; Engineering or manufacturing background (degree or equivalent experience); Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills; A hands-on approach to managing operational teams.
What’s on Offer:
- 37.5 hour working week
- Early Friday finishes
- Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
- 28 days annual leave + Christmas closure
- Pension scheme with matched contributions
- Wellbeing support and employee benefits platform
- Strong learning and development opportunities
UK Security Clearance: Due to the nature of the role, candidates must be eligible for UK Security Clearance and able to provide evidence of UK residency history as required.
Apply Now: If you have experience leading operations in a complex Defence manufacturing environment and enjoy driving performance across cost, quality, and delivery, we’d be interested in hearing from you. Application deadline: Thursday 7th May.
Operations Manager in Crawley employer: Empresaria Group plc
Contact Detail:
Empresaria Group plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their products and services, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have your own ready!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with Lean or Six Sigma, be ready to discuss specific examples of how you’ve improved processes. Use metrics to back up your claims – numbers speak volumes in operations management!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get that application in and let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in matrix operations management and any relevant continuous improvement methodologies you've used. We want to see how your background fits with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Integrated Portfolio Team. Share specific examples of how you've driven performance in previous roles, especially in defence or manufacturing environments.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We’re looking for strong leaders! In your application, emphasise your experience in managing teams and driving operational excellence. Mention any coaching or mentoring you've done, as well as how you’ve fostered a positive workplace culture.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for both of us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Empresaria Group plc
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of operations management within a defence manufacturing context. Familiarise yourself with key terms like Lean, Six Sigma, and MRP/ERP systems. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams, especially in a matrix structure. Think of examples where you've successfully coached or developed team members. Highlight how you promote a positive workplace culture and ensure safety and accountability.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. For instance, be ready to explain how you would handle operational bottlenecks or drive continuous improvement initiatives. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Understand the Company’s Goals and Challenges
Research the company’s current projects and challenges in the defence sector. Being knowledgeable about their operations and strategic goals will allow you to tailor your answers and show how your experience aligns with their needs. It’s all about making that connection!