Operations Manager in Chesterfield

Joseph Ash Galvanizing Chesterfield is recruiting an Operations Manager who is responsible for optimizing plant operations, identifying and driving continuous improvement and development of efficient production processes. Responsibilities include:

• Analyzing and improving the efficiency of the galvanizing process, identifying bottlenecks and implementing solutions to increase total throughput and reduce cycle times.
• Improving cost effectiveness of the production facility and maintaining GPU below expected targets.
• Working with the H&S Manager to ensure that all production processes adhere to Health and Safety regulations, maintaining and improving a safe working environment.
• Fostering a positive, motivating high-performing professional team culture.
• Inspiring and developing the operations team to provide an excellent standard of work from a highly efficient operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Optimization: Working with the General Manager, production supervisory team and operators to identify and drive implementation of improved methods of working. Continuously monitor the production process to ensure it operates within established parameters, adjusting settings and making recommendations for process improvements. Monitor chemical data from all process tanks, ensuring that chemistry is optimized for high quality, efficient production meeting cost targets. Perform root cause analysis on any quality issues or defects, implementing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. Manage the divisional operation in line with Company guidelines and legislative requirements targeting operational compliance and achievement of the business plan. Co-ordinate cross-functional requirements to meet customer demand with a focus on quality. Work with the People team to ensure timely completion of all associated people processes, such as recruitment, investigations, disciplinary and performance management. Deputise for the General Manager during periods of absence, taking overall responsibility for the Division. Build excellent relationships with customers across a large customer base. Identify and develop talent across the teams ensuring succession plans are in place for key roles.
• Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production throughput, crane utilization, downtime, and defect rates, providing regular reports to senior management. Identify areas for cost reduction across the production process with assistance from the maintenance team, from energy consumption to raw material usage, and propose strategies to increase profitability. Work in close collaboration with the General Manager to ensure operational profitability is maintained or exceeds budget targets.
• Health & Safety (HS) Compliance: Complete regular floor walks of all operational and non-operational areas within the site to check Health & Safety and housekeeping standards are maintained, taking appropriate action as required. Challenge negative safety behaviour, engage shop floor colleagues by influencing and encouraging a positive safety culture. Liaise with the Health & Safety Manager to ensure all colleagues are trained and aware of potential hazards and/or risks, ensuring all records are reviewed and updated on a monthly basis, and all action points are reviewed and implemented. Ensure PPM schedule is overseen, and records are maintained.

Person Specification

• Able to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams at all levels and work in a hands-on, fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with industrial machinery, chemical processes, automation systems, and production technologies used in galvanizing.
• Good understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations within a manufacturing environment.
• A self-starter who can work independently and drive improvements with minimal supervision.
• Good verbal and written communication skills to effectively liaise with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Organized and flexible individual.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Desirable knowledge of Lean Manufacturing – 6S, Kanban and Kaizen.
• Relevant professional qualifications, such as IOSH.
• Excellent analytical ability in planning projects and managing KPIs.
• Experience of managing change and improving organisational culture.
• Forward thinking with operational and people management experience gained within a manufacturing environment.

Benefits:

• Salary up to £60,000 - £65,000 (D.O.E) plus bonus of up to 9% annual salary.
• 25 days holiday plus annual bank holidays.
• Reward Gateway - Smart Spending and Saving App.
• Share Save Scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• On-site Mental Health First Aid support.
• Death in Service Benefit – 3 x annual salary.