At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily factory operations and optimise production workflows in a hands-on role.
- Company: Fast-growing manufacturing company with a focus on innovation and automation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, generous holiday allowance, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a supportive team and direct influence on company strategy.
- Why this job: Join us in shaping a brand-new manufacturing facility and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in manufacturing management with hands-on leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About Us
We are a dynamic, fast-growing manufacturing company specializing in the manufacture and supply of top quality, standard and bespoke thermal stores, buffer vessels and hot water cylinders throughout the UK and Ireland. Due to surging customer demand, our business is scaling rapidly. We need an energetic, hands-on Operations Manager to step in, take ownership of our production floor, and help us build the robust operational backbone required for our next chapter of growth. It is an exciting time to join. The business is preparing to move into a brand-new, purpose-built 60,000 sq ft greenfield manufacturing plant, and has a strong interest in how robotics and automation can shape the way it manufactures in the years ahead.
The Role
As our Operations Manager, you will be the engine of our daily factory activities. You will free up the Managing Director to focus on commercial expansion by taking total control of production scheduling, quality control, supply chain flow, and team leadership. This is not a back-office desk job. We need someone comfortable walking the shop floor, optimizing workflows, solving bottlenecks, and rolling up their sleeves alongside a tight-knit team of 15-25 production staff. You will lead a committed, hard-working team where there is real scope to sharpen how things are done. We are looking for a practical, hands-on manager who can bring structure, embed lean principles and grow with the business, rather than someone who prefers a heavily corporate way of working.
Key Responsibilities
- Production Management: Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, hitting targets for on-time delivery, output volume, and production efficiency.
- New Facility & Automation: Play a key role in the move to our new 60,000 sq ft greenfield plant, providing input on factory layout, production flow and a phased implementation plan, and helping to assess and introduce robotics and automation where they add value.
- Process Optimization: Implement Lean Manufacturing or 5S principles to reduce waste, streamline assembly lines, and improve safety.
- Supply Chain & Inventory: Manage raw material stock levels, coordinate with external vendors, and oversee shipping logistics.
- Team Leadership: Hire, train, mentor, and schedule production personnel to build a positive, high-performing culture.
- Quality & Compliance: Maintain strict health, safety, and quality assurance standards across the facility.
- Systems & Data: Utilize our systems to track key performance indicators (KPIs), report on metrics, and drive continuous improvement.
What We Are Looking For
- Experience: 5+ years of proven success in an operational, production, or manufacturing management role (ideally within an SME or a growing start up environment).
- Hands-on Style: A proactive leader who is equally comfortable strategizing in an office and troubleshooting mechanical or workflow issues on the factory floor.
- Down-to-Earth Approach: Someone who wants to roll their sleeves up and grow with an ambitious business, bringing good practice and structure without an overly corporate style.
- Technical Skills: Solid working knowledge of ERP/MRP software, inventory control, and basic budgeting.
- Continuous Improvement: Practical experience applying Lean or similar continuous improvement tools.
- Communication: Clear, direct communication skills with an ability to coach team members and collaborate with senior leadership.
- Desirable: Experience of a factory relocation, new-build or layout project, and/or exposure to robotics and automation in a production environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Company pension and generous holiday allowance.
- Direct influence on company strategy and a clear path to senior leadership as the company expands.
- The opportunity to help shape a brand-new 60,000 sq ft manufacturing facility from the ground up.
- On-site parking and a friendly, supportive working environment.
How to Apply
Please submit your updated CV and a brief cover letter explaining why you are ready to help a growing manufacturer scale its operations.
Manufacturing Operations Manager in Antrim employer: Lucas Executive Search
As a leading engineering business with over 50 years of experience, our client offers a dynamic work environment in Newry, where innovation and technical excellence are at the forefront. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth, with opportunities to lead projects and mentor teams while working with cutting-edge technology. The company values its staff, providing a supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and ensures compliance with industry standards, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Operations Manager in Antrim
✨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 Lucas Executive Search, 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 Manufacturing Operations Manager in Antrim
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 Lucas Executive Search 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 Lucas Executive Search
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Lucas Executive Search, 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 Lucas Executive Search 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.
