At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop operations for a growing industrial services provider.
- Company: Rapidly expanding SME in Rochdale with a focus on quality and customer service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career advancement in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and drive operational excellence in a thriving industry.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in industrial services and strong operational management skills.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
A rapidly expanding SME business in Rochdale specialising in industrial installations, engineering services, and equipment maintenance. They are a trusted provider supporting customers across sectors including distribution, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, food production, utilities, and industrial processing.
We are looking for an ambitious and commercially focused Head of Operations to lead and develop the business. This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the safe, efficient, and profitable delivery of installation projects, maintenance services, engineering support, and customer contracts, running all site operations. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a critical role in driving operational performance, customer satisfaction, business growth, and operational excellence.
The successful candidate will combine strong operational leadership with a hands-on understanding of industrial engineering, field service delivery, project management, and health & safety compliance. As Head of Operations, you will oversee the day-to-day delivery of maintenance engineering, equipment installation, and service activities, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
You will lead multiple teams across project management, engineering, field service, and operational support functions, while working closely with sales, finance, and the board to achieve strategic business objectives.
- Operational Leadership
- Lead all installation, maintenance, and service operations across the business.
- Develop and implement operational strategies that support growth, profitability, and customer retention.
- Drive a culture of safety, accountability, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Monitor operational performance against KPI, SLA, and financial targets.
- Project & Service Delivery
- Ensure successful delivery of installation projects from planning through to completion.
- Oversee field service operations, maintenance programmes, and reactive service activities.
- Improve project execution, resource utilisation, and operational efficiency.
- Manage workloads, scheduling, labour planning, and contractor resources.
- Customer Excellence
- Build strong relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
- Ensure consistently high levels of service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Support commercial teams in securing and mobilising new contracts.
- Resolve escalated operational and customer issues effectively.
- Financial & Commercial Management
- Manage operational budgets, profitability, and cost controls.
- Drive improvements in project margins, service productivity, and operational efficiency.
- Contribute to strategic planning, forecasting, and business growth initiatives.
- Identify opportunities for operational improvement and revenue growth.
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Champion a safety-first culture across all operational activities.
- Ensure compliance with relevant industry legislation, regulations, and company standards.
- Lead investigations, audits, and corrective actions where required.
- Promote best practices in risk management and safe working procedures.
- Leadership & People Development
- Lead, motivate, and develop operational managers and engineering teams.
- Build a high-performance culture focused on engagement, accountability, and results.
- Support talent development, succession planning, and skills growth.
- Encourage collaboration across all departments and business functions.
The successful applicant will be an experienced operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced engineering, manufacturing, or industrial services environment. You will have a proven ability to manage site operations while balancing customer expectations, commercial performance, and team development.
You must understand EBITDA and be able to manage a full P&L. Significant senior operations leadership experience within an industrial services, manufacturing, engineering services, installations, maintenance, or field service environment is required. A proven track record of managing large operational teams across multiple sites or regions is essential.
Strong understanding of project delivery, service operations, engineering support, and resource planning is necessary, along with demonstrable experience improving operational performance and profitability. Sound commercial and financial management capability is expected, as well as strong knowledge of health, safety, and compliance requirements within industrial environments.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills are crucial. A full UK Driving Licence is required, and a degree or professional qualification in Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Business Management, or a related discipline is helpful. Experience within industrial installations, materials handling, automation, mechanical or electrical engineering, or manufacturing sectors is beneficial.
IOSH, NEBOSH, or equivalent Health & Safety qualification would be useful but not essential. Experience leading business transformation or operational improvement programmes is advantageous, as is knowledge of Lean, Continuous Improvement, or Operational Excellence methodologies.
Salary: £80,000 to £100,000, depending on current salary and experience, plus benefits.
Head of Operations in Rochdale employer: Michael Page International
Michael Page is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds that fosters professional growth and development. With a strong focus on mentoring and team collaboration, employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements and a competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses. Joining this multinational organisation means being part of a high-growth team dedicated to delivering exceptional tax compliance services across diverse sectors.
Contact Details:
Michael Page International Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Rochdale
✨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 Michael Page International, 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 Rochdale
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 Michael Page International 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 Michael Page International
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Michael Page International, 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 Michael Page International 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.
