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- Tasks: Lead and optimise manufacturing and operational performance in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Laurelle London, a leading UK manufacturer in beauty and personal care.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary and the chance to shape operations.
- Other info: Opportunity for autonomy and influence in a thriving entrepreneurial setting.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing business and make a real impact on its future.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in manufacturing or operations, ideally at director level.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Laurelle London is a leading UK-based manufacturer specialising in the development, formulation, and supply of fine fragrance, as well as a wide range of health, beauty, and personal care products. With a diverse and expanding client portfolio, we deliver a seamless end-to-end service — from concept creation through to production and fulfilment.
Following a sustained period of growth, we are now entering the next phase of our journey and are looking to appoint an Operations Director to help scale and strengthen our operational capability.
This is a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the business. Based at our large-scale manufacturing site in Essex, you will take full ownership of operations — spanning manufacturing, supply chain, and fulfilment. This is not a “steady-state” role. It is an opportunity to shape, build, and elevate the operational function, bringing structure, scalability, and accountability across people, processes, and systems. You will lead from the front, quickly establish credibility, and drive high performance across a sizeable, multi-functional team.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and optimise end-to-end manufacturing and operational performance
- Define and execute supplier strategy, driving value, reliability, and scalability
- Ensure robust quality, compliance, and regulatory standards across all operations
- Build, develop, and align cross-functional teams with clear accountability and performance metrics
- Design and implement scalable processes across business functions
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives, delivering efficiency gains and cost-per-unit reductions
- Maintain full ownership of health & safety, ensuring audit-ready compliance at all times
- Proven leadership experience within manufacturing or operations, ideally at senior management or director level
- Background in cosmetics, beauty, or FMCG, with strong knowledge of regulated manufacturing and batch compliance
- Experience operating within a £20M–£80M product-based business
- Track record of overseeing multiple operational functions at a senior level
- Strong expertise in supplier management and strategic sourcing
- Experience across both DTC and wholesale distribution models
- Demonstrable experience adhering to GMP and BRC standards
- Commercially minded, with a clear understanding of how operational performance impacts brand perception and customer experience
- Opportunity to play a key role in scaling a fast-growing, entrepreneurial business
- High-impact position with real autonomy and influence
- A chance to build and shape operations for the next stage of growth
- An excellent remuneration package is on offer
Director of Operations in Colchester employer: Laurelle London
Contact Detail:
Laurelle London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Operations Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Laurelle London inside out. Understand their products and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine and show them why you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven operational performance and led teams in the past. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that magic to their operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate candidates who are ready to make an impact in the beauty and cosmetics industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Operations Director. Highlight your leadership experience in manufacturing or operations, especially if you've worked in cosmetics or FMCG. We want to see how your background aligns 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 this pivotal role. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational performance and led teams to success. Let us know what excites you about joining Laurelle London!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you implement a process that saved costs or improved efficiency? We love numbers, so make sure to include them to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laurelle London
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research Laurelle London thoroughly. Understand their products, values, and recent developments. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Operations, your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, optimised processes, and driven performance in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that expertise to Laurelle London.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires a strategic mindset. Think about how you would approach supplier management and operational performance at Laurelle London. Prepare to share your ideas on scalability and efficiency improvements during the interview.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the company's growth plans, operational challenges, and team dynamics. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to the company's success.