At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee operations, manage suppliers, and improve processes in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Dynamic SME focused on technical growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for international travel and exposure to cutting-edge projects.
- Why this job: Join a growing business and shape operational success while working with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations, strong supplier management skills, and a degree in a scientific field.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: UK-based, near Leeds with occasional travel to UK and international warehouse, supplier, laboratory and customer locations.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Operations Manager to oversee and develop key operational functions within a growing, technically focused business. Reporting to senior leadership, you will take responsibility for purchasing, supplier management, stock control, outsourced manufacturing, laboratory development coordination, warehousing and quality processes. This is a hands-on role that offers significant scope to improve systems, strengthen operational resilience and support future business growth. The role would particularly suit someone who enjoys working within a fast-paced SME environment and is comfortable managing multiple operational activities across a lean organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Operations & Supply Chain
- Manage day-to-day operations across outsourced manufacturing and supply chain partners.
- Coordinate UK and international warehouse activities.
- Support laboratory development projects and external technical providers.
- Develop and improve operational processes, controls and documentation.
- Monitor performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Ensure continuity of supply and support business growth initiatives.
- Purchasing & Supplier Management
- Manage purchasing activities and supplier relationships.
- Negotiate pricing, lead times and supply agreements.
- Monitor supplier performance and delivery reliability.
- Reduce operational risk through effective supplier management and contingency planning.
- Stock Control & Quality
- Maintain accurate inventory management across multiple locations.
- Manage forecasting and replenishment planning.
- Improve stock visibility and reporting.
- Support compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 standards.
- Coordinate product testing, validation and new product introduction activities.
- Business Support
- Contribute to operational planning and strategic development.
- Develop KPI reporting and process documentation.
- Support business continuity and succession planning initiatives.
About You
- Essential
- Experience in an Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Purchasing Manager or similar role.
- Strong supplier management, purchasing and inventory control experience.
- Experience managing outsourced manufacturing or third-party service providers.
- Strong organisational, problem-solving and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of operational performance.
- Degree or background in Chemistry, Materials Science or a related scientific discipline.
- Desirable
- Experience with international supply chains.
- Exposure to technical, chemical, manufacturing or industrial sectors.
- Knowledge of ISO management systems.
- Experience supporting product development or product launch activities.
What You'll Bring
- A practical, solutions-focused approach.
- Strong attention to detail and operational discipline.
- Commercial awareness and sound decision-making skills.
- The ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
- Confidence working with technical, scientific and operational stakeholders.
Why Join Us?
This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in a growing business, helping to build scalable operational systems, improve supply chain performance and support the successful delivery of new products and future growth plans.
Operations Manager in Bristol employer: MostonRECRUIT
Join a dynamic and innovative team as an Operations Manager in the heart of the UK, near Leeds, where you will have the opportunity to shape operational excellence in a fast-paced SME environment. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth, continuous improvement, and meaningful contributions to our business success. With competitive benefits and the chance to engage with international partners, this role offers a unique platform for career advancement and impactful work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with potential employers on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or be able to refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their supply chain processes and think about how your experience can add value. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in supplier management and inventory control can benefit the company. A confident and clear presentation of your abilities can make a huge difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals who can help us grow. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and makes it easier for us to find your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in supply chain management, purchasing, and any relevant technical background. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of how you've improved operational processes or managed supplier relationships in the past. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t shy away from showcasing your problem-solving abilities. Give us examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you tackled them. We’re all about finding solutions here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get the best experience possible. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at MostonRECRUIT
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of an Operations Manager. Brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management, purchasing, and stock control. Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you're not just familiar with the role, but that you can bring valuable insights to the table.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. Think of specific instances where you improved operational processes or managed supplier relationships effectively. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to think on your feet, which is crucial in a fast-paced SME environment.
✨Highlight Your Technical Knowledge
Given the technical focus of the role, be ready to talk about your background in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields. If you have experience with ISO management systems, make sure to mention it. This will help you stand out as a candidate who not only understands operations but also the scientific aspects that may impact them.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the company's future growth plans, how they measure success in the operations team, or what challenges they currently face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
