Operations Manager in Leicester

Let's start with what this role isn't. This isn't a business that's struggling. It isn't a turnaround project. It isn't somewhere looking for a consultant to come in and tell them everything they're doing wrong. In fact, quite the opposite. If you're looking for a role where you can sit behind a desk and manage from a distance, this probably isn't for you. If you enjoy being visible, involved and part of the team, you'll fit right in.

This is a well-established and highly successful sheet metal fabrication business that continues to grow year after year. They've invested heavily in state-of-the-art machinery, have a strong reputation within their sector and, quite simply, have plenty of work. What they need now is someone who can sit between the Managing Director and the shop floor, taking ownership of the day-to-day operation and helping ensure everything runs as smoothly as it should. The MD is heavily involved in the operational side of the business and needs someone he can trust to take responsibility for production, planning, purchasing, logistics and people management, allowing him to focus on leading the company strategically.

You'll be overseeing supervisors and managers across the operation, ensuring communication flows effectively, priorities are clear and the business continues to deliver for its customers. This role is about leadership, organisation and accountability. Not reinventing the wheel. This is a business with a genuine team-first culture. There are no big egos and no "that's not my job" attitudes. Whilst you'll be leading the operation, you'll also be expected to roll your sleeves up when needed. Whether that's helping solve a production issue, supporting the shop floor or even jumping on a forklift if the situation calls for it, everyone mucks in. Titles are largely left at the door here. The MD does it. The supervisors do it. The successful person will too.

What you'll be doing:

• Acting as the operational link between the Managing Director and the factory
• Supporting and developing supervisors and departmental managers
• Overseeing production, planning, purchasing, logistics and dispatch
• Ensuring customer orders are delivered on time and to the required quality standards
• Managing operational performance, capacity planning and resource allocation
• Monitoring KPIs and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency
• Supporting estimating and commercial teams with realistic lead times and production capabilities
• Working closely with purchasing and supply chain teams to minimise risk and maintain material availability
• Ensuring quality standards, certifications and compliance requirements are maintained
• Acting as the escalation point for operational issues when required
• Driving continuous improvement where it adds value, without creating unnecessary change

What we're looking for:

• Leads by example rather than from behind a desk
• Is comfortable being visible and present on the shop floor
• Can build respect from operators, supervisors and management alike
• Understands fabrication and manufacturing environments
• Isn't afraid to get stuck in when needed
• Brings structure and accountability without unnecessary bureaucracy
• Can see the bigger picture whilst still paying attention to the day-to-day detail

Why join?

The foundations are already there. You'll be joining a profitable business with a healthy order book, excellent reputation and genuine investment in its future. The machinery is in place. The people are in place. The work is there. This is a leadership role, but it's very much a sleeves-rolled-up environment. Nobody hides behind their job title here. Interested? Get in touch.