At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise manufacturing operations for growth and efficiency.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing business with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Autonomy to make an impact and shape operational future.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence strategic decisions and build high-performing teams.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in a growing company and drive operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior operational leadership within complex manufacturing environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Operations to join a growing manufacturing business at an exciting stage of its development. Reporting directly to the COO, this is a pivotal leadership role with full responsibility for operational performance across manufacturing, production, planning, logistics, yard operations, quality, and delivery.
This is an opportunity for a proven operational leader to take ownership of a complex manufacturing environment, drive operational excellence, and play a key role in scaling the business for future growth.
The Opportunity
As Head of Operations, you will lead the end-to-end manufacturing function, ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable operations while delivering outstanding customer performance. You will be responsible for developing operational capability, increasing manufacturing capacity, improving productivity, and embedding a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Working closely with the senior leadership team, you will influence strategic decisions around investment, operational infrastructure, workforce planning, automation, and future growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all manufacturing and operational activities, including production, fabrication, assembly, planning, logistics, dispatch, and yard operations.
- Drive operational performance across safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost.
- Develop and execute operational strategies that support business growth and scalability.
- Oversee production planning and capacity management to ensure customer commitments are consistently achieved.
- Improve OTIF performance, labour utilisation, throughput, and manufacturing efficiency.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across processes, systems, workflows, and operational governance.
- Support investment decisions relating to facilities, equipment, technology, and automation.
- Build, develop, and lead high-performing operational management teams.
- Partner with commercial, project, procurement, quality, and HSE teams to deliver operational excellence across the business.
- Establish robust KPI reporting, performance management, and operational accountability frameworks.
About You
We are looking for a highly accomplished manufacturing leader who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach to operational leadership. You will bring:
- Significant experience operating at Head of Operations, Operations Director, or equivalent senior leadership level.
- A strong background within steel fabrication, engineering, heavy manufacturing, or similarly complex industrial environments.
- Proven success managing end-to-end manufacturing operations and delivering measurable improvements in productivity, efficiency, quality, and delivery performance.
- Expertise in production planning, operational strategy, workforce planning, and capacity management.
- Experience leading business transformation, operational improvement, and growth initiatives.
- Strong commercial awareness with a track record of improving profitability and operational performance.
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to build high-performing teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems to drive operational visibility, reporting, and decision-making.
Why Join?
This is a rare opportunity to join a business with ambitious growth plans and play a key role in shaping its operational future. You will have the autonomy to make a genuine impact, influence strategic direction, and build an operational platform capable of supporting significant expansion.
If you are a driven manufacturing leader with a passion for operational excellence and a track record of delivering results, we would love to hear from you.
Head of Operations in Tranent employer: HAD-FAB LTD
Join a dynamic manufacturing business that values operational excellence and offers a collaborative work culture. As the Head of Operations, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative initiatives, drive growth, and develop high-performing teams in a supportive environment that prioritises employee development and innovation. With ambitious plans for expansion, this role provides a unique chance to make a significant impact while enjoying a rewarding career in a thriving industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Tranent
✨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 HAD-FAB 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 Head of Operations in Tranent
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 HAD-FAB 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 HAD-FAB LTD
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with HAD-FAB 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 HAD-FAB 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.
