Operations Manager in Chester

Operations Manager in Chester

Chester Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Oversee operations, manage suppliers, and improve processes in a dynamic environment.
  • Company: Fast-growing tech-focused business near Leeds with a collaborative culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and hands-on experience.
  • Other info: Opportunity to work with international suppliers and contribute to strategic development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing operational systems and supporting product launches.
  • Qualifications: Experience in operations or supply chain management; degree in a scientific discipline preferred.

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 Chester 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.

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Contact Details:

MostonRECRUIT Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Chester

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for an Operations Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a great opportunity.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their supply chain processes and think of ways you can contribute to improving them. This shows you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running!

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Operations Manager role. Highlight your supplier management skills and any successes in improving operational processes.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Chester

Operations Management
Supplier Management
Purchasing
Inventory Control
Outsourced Manufacturing Management
Laboratory Development Coordination
Quality Assurance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in supply chain management, purchasing, and inventory control. We want to see how your skills match 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.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention times when you’ve tackled challenges head-on. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with practical solutions in a fast-paced environment.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join 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 also ready to hit the ground running.

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 drive continuous improvement, which is crucial for this position.

Familiarise Yourself with ISO Standards

Since the role involves compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of these frameworks. Be ready to talk about your experience with quality management systems and how you’ve ensured compliance in past roles. This will highlight your attention to detail and operational discipline.

Ask Insightful Questions

Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare some thoughtful questions about the company’s operational challenges and future growth plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.