At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational excellence in a dynamic engineering and manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking business in Newton Abbot, Devon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £60,000 and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values accountability and measurable performance.
- Why this job: Transform operations and drive continuous improvement in a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Must have significant experience in 3PL or manufacturing leadership.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.
SF Partners are working with a business based in Newton Abbot, Devon who are looking for a Head of Operations to join the team. Must have a 3PL background. c£60,000.
Role Purpose:
We are seeking an experienced and transformational Head of Operations to lead operational excellence across our engineering and manufacturing business. This role is ideal for an operational leader who has developed their career within a high-performing Third-Party Logistics (3PL), distribution or supply chain environment and can transfer those disciplines into manufacturing. The successful candidate will bring a relentless focus on continuous improvement, operational efficiency, performance management and customer delivery.
Working closely with Production, Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality and Customer Service teams, the Head of Operations will challenge existing ways of working, introduce best-in-class operational standards and create a culture of accountability, measurable performance and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operational performance of the manufacturing and production functions.
- Develop and implement an operational excellence strategy aligned to business objectives.
- Establish clear performance measures across all operational areas.
- Ensure production capacity, resources and processes support customer demand.
- Drive operational consistency across departments through standardised processes and governance.
Continuous Improvement
Champion a culture of continuous improvement by applying Lean manufacturing and logistics best practices to improve productivity, quality and customer outcomes.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Significant operational leadership experience within a high-performance 3PL, logistics, distribution or manufacturing environment.
- Proven success in implementing operational excellence and continuous improvement programmes.
- Strong understanding of Lean methodologies, process optimisation and performance management.
- Experience leading operational transformation and cultural change.
- Demonstrated ability to improve productivity, service levels and operational efficiency through data-led decision making.
- Strong commercial awareness with experience balancing cost, quality and customer outcomes.
- Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience developing KPI frameworks and performance reporting.
Head of Operations in Newton Abbot employer: SF Partners
SF Partners is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers while being part of a high-performing team dedicated to driving success. The company values operational excellence and provides a competitive salary, making it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Newton Abbot
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like SF Partners and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at SF Partners!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like SF Partners keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Newton Abbot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to SF Partners:This is your chance to really connect with the team at SF Partners. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Partners
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with SF Partners.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show SF Partners that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at SF Partners. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
