At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations in heavy machinery manufacturing, driving performance and transformation.
- Company: Join a leading organisation in the heavy machinery sector with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Excellent salary, attractive bonuses, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Why this job: Shape operational strategy and make a real impact in a rewarding industry.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as an Operations Director in heavy manufacturing with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Worcestershire
Contract: Permanent
Salary: Excellent package + comprehensive benefits
The Opportunity
We are seeking an exceptional Operations Director to join a leading organisation within the heavy machinery manufacturing sector. This is a pivotal leadership role for a proven operational expert who thrives on driving performance, leading transformation, and delivering sustainable improvements across complex manufacturing environments. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Director who has fully operated at board level and is equally comfortable immersed on the shop floor, ensuring alignment between strategy and execution.
The Role
Reporting directly to the executive leadership team, you will hold end-to-end responsibility for operational performance across manufacturing, production, supply chain, and continuous improvement functions.
- Leading and executing the strategic direction of operations to drive efficiency, productivity, and profitability
- Delivering operational turnaround initiatives, improving underperforming production environments and embedding best-practice processes
- Providing visible leadership across all levels - from shop floor teams to boardroom stakeholders
- Driving a culture of continuous improvement (Lean / Six Sigma principles)
- Managing and optimising manufacturing output, quality, safety, and cost control
- Developing high-performing teams and succession pipelines across operations
- Collaborating with senior leadership to support business growth, innovation, and long-term operational strategy
- Ensuring compliance with all industry regulations, quality standards, and health & safety requirements
About You
We are looking for a highly credible and hands-on leader with a strong track record in heavy manufacturing environments.
You will bring:
- Proven experience operating as an Operations Director (or equivalent senior leadership role) within heavy machinery manufacturing
- Demonstrable success in turnaround and transformation of production operations
- A leadership style that is both strategic and hands-on, with the ability to work effectively from shop floor to boardroom
- Strong commercial acumen and operational insight
- Experience driving continuous improvement programmes (Lean, Six Sigma, or similar)
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- A results-driven mindset with the ability to deliver measurable improvements
What’s On Offer
- Excellent salary package (competitive and reflective of experience)
- Attractive bonus scheme
- Comprehensive benefits package (including pension, healthcare, etc.)
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping operational strategy and performance
- A dynamic and supportive leadership environment
Apply Now
If you are an experienced Operations Director ready to take on a high-impact role within a demanding and rewarding manufacturing environment, we would love to hear from you.
Operations Director employer: Four Squared Recruitment Ltd
Join a leading heavy machinery manufacturing organisation in Worcestershire, where you will be part of a dynamic and supportive leadership environment that values innovation and continuous improvement. With an excellent salary package, attractive bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits, this role offers significant opportunities for professional growth and the chance to shape operational strategy at a pivotal level. Experience a culture that encourages collaboration and empowers you to drive performance from the shop floor to the boardroom.
Contact Details:
Four Squared Recruitment Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director
✨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 Four Squared Recruitment Ltd, 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 Director
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 Four Squared Recruitment Ltd 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 Four Squared Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Four Squared Recruitment Ltd, 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 Four Squared Recruitment Ltd 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.
