Operations Manager

A highly established global furniture manufacturer is looking to recruit an Operations Manager to join their team. This key role will oversee the Education division's supply chain, inventory management, supplier performance and operational processes. Working closely with the Education Sales Director and Education Sales Support Manager, you'll ensure product availability, manage supplier relationships and drive operational efficiency to support business growth. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced operations professional with a background in manufacturing and supply chain management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage annual stock plans to ensure optimum inventory levels and product availability.
• Monitor stock performance, forecasting and demand planning, proactively managing risks to supply.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers and logistics partners.
• Drive supplier performance through KPI management, improving service, quality, lead times and cost efficiency.
• Ensure all products meet the latest testing, certification and compliance standards.
• Approve supplier invoices and ensure accuracy across operational processes.
• Provide weekly operational updates and performance reporting to senior management.
• Monitor operational KPIs, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to ensure operational processes remain scalable and effective as the business grows.
• Support business continuity planning and operational risk management across the supply chain.

Experience required:

• Proven experience in operations and supply chain management within a manufacturing environment, including inventory planning, demand forecasting and supplier management.
• Experience managing supplier performance, KPIs, logistics and operational risk.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication and relationship-building skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
• Experience with ERP systems and continuous improvement methodologies is advantageous.
• Previous experience within the furniture, manufacturing, FMCG, interiors and if sold products within the education sectors, that would be beneficial.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to manufacturing and distribution sites across the UK.

Benefits:

• 23 days annual leave + bank holidays (increases with tenure)
• 1 day extra annual leave for birthday
• Company contribution to private pension*
• Wellness Allowance*
• Cashback Healthcare Scheme*
• Cycle to Work Scheme**Following probationary period

We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.

PLEASE NOTE: We can only consider applications from candidates who have the right to work in the UK.