At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations at a busy waste management facility and drive process improvements.
- Company: Join a leading organisation in the waste management and recycling sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing sector while fostering a culture of safety and improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in waste management, team leadership, and safety compliance is essential.
- Other info: This is a hands-on role with the chance to shape site culture and performance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Northfleet, Kent (Onsite role)
Employment Type: Permanent
Salary & Benefits: Competitive salary dependant on experience and a comprehensive benefits package.
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, with flexible start and finish times to suit your schedule.
We are seeking a dynamic and hands-on Operations Manager to join a leading organisation within the waste management and recycling sector. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced operational leader to step into a pivotal role with real scope to drive change, improve processes, and lead a high-performing team.
About the Role
As Operations Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of a busy waste management facility. The site plays a key role in the collection, transfer, and processing of both solid and liquid waste materials, and requires a forward-thinking individual who can bring structure, introduce process improvements, and ensure safe and efficient operations.
This role offers the chance to lead a high-performing team while reporting directly to the Operations Director. You'll have the autonomy to drive change and ensure smooth, compliant operations, all while fostering a collaborative environment. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and has a leadership style that brings people together to deliver consistently safe and effective results.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Site Operations: Oversee daily activities across waste transfer, transport, and technical teams, ensuring efficient and compliant site performance.
- Drive Improvement: Implement visual management, 5S, and continuous improvement to boost efficiency and safety.
- Manage & Develop Teams: Support a team of six development through training, 1-2-1s, and performance management to build a strong, engaged workforce.
- Ensure Safety & Commercial Control: Promote a safety-first culture while managing budgets, P&L, and operational effectiveness.
We're looking for a confident, hands-on leader with a passion for driving operational excellence and creating a culture of safety and improvement. If you're ready to take ownership of a dynamic site and lead meaningful change, this could be the perfect next step.
You'll thrive in this role if you have:
- Solid experience in waste management, recycling, or a similar operational environment
- A proven track record in leading teams, with a sleeves-rolled-up approach to leadership
- Confidence in budget management and hitting operational performance targets
- A strong grasp of safety and compliance, with experience embedding high standards across teams
- Recognised qualifications such as IOSH Managing Safely and WAMITAB COTC (Level 4)
Even better if you bring:
- A NEBOSH General Certificate
- Experience promoting behavioural safety or leading continuous improvement initiatives
- Familiarity with industry standards like ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001
Why Join?
This role offers an exciting opportunity to join a progressive business within a critical and growing sector. You'll have the autonomy to shape and lead operations, influence site culture, and play a central role in driving performance. For someone motivated by improvement, development, and making a real impact, this is a standout opportunity.
Ready to lead operations and shape the future of sustainable waste management? Apply today to be considered.
Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector employer: Talent Solutions Staffing UK
Contact Detail:
Talent Solutions Staffing UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in waste management and recycling. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the industry and your ability to drive innovation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the waste management sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others. Building relationships can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals for the Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and implemented process improvements in previous roles. Being able to share these experiences will showcase your leadership style and operational expertise during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s values and culture. Understanding their approach to safety, compliance, and team development will allow you to align your responses with their expectations, making you a more attractive candidate for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in waste management and recycling. Emphasise your leadership roles, operational achievements, and any specific qualifications like IOSH or NEBOSH that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for operational excellence and safety in the waste management sector. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you can drive change and improve processes.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in team management, budget control, and compliance with safety standards. Mention any experience with continuous improvement initiatives and industry standards like ISO9001.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Describe your hands-on leadership approach and how you foster a collaborative environment. Provide examples of how you've successfully led teams to achieve operational targets and maintain high safety standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Solutions Staffing UK
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach and how you engage with your team. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in fast-paced environments like waste management.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with relevant safety regulations and standards such as IOSH, NEBOSH, and ISO certifications. Be ready to explain how you've implemented these in previous roles to ensure compliance and safety.
✨Highlight Process Improvement Initiatives
Discuss any experience you have with continuous improvement methodologies like 5S or visual management. Provide concrete examples of how you've driven efficiency and safety improvements in your past positions.
✨Prepare for Budget Management Questions
Since budget management is a key responsibility, be ready to talk about your experience with P&L and operational performance targets. Use specific figures or outcomes to illustrate your success in managing budgets effectively.