At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and manufacturing for a successful family-owned group in the KBB sector.
- Company: Join the Danesmoor Group, a market leader with over 110 years of heritage.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, car allowance, bonus potential, and executive benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and team development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the future of a growing business.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in manufacturing leadership and operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Drayton are excited to be retained to recruit a Group Operations & Manufacturing Director for the Danesmoor Group. The role will be leading the Operations & Manufacturing function for one of the UK's most successful family-owned Groups supporting the UK KBB (Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom) sector for over 110 years. Located in Newton Aycliffe, the Danesmoor Group is a highly successful, independent fifth-generation family business with exceptional entrepreneurial heritage and ambitious growth plans to become a £100 million + turnover group.
Danesmoor has established itself as a market-leading force within the UK Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom (KBB) sector across their three principal business units: PWS, Life Kitchens and the Danesmoor Agency serving retail, trade and contract markets nationwide. With projected revenues exceeding £70 million this year and close to 400 employees, the Danesmoor Group enjoy state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and distribution sites as well as amazing open plan offices head-quartered in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham. Danesmoor is built around a customer-first philosophy and a commitment to quality, innovation and service excellence.
The Opportunity
This is a career-defining opportunity to join a successful, well-funded and growing business at a pivotal stage in its evolution. Having invested significantly in manufacturing capability, infrastructure and technology, the Danesmoor Group is now seeking a Group Operations & Manufacturing Director to embed the operational framework, leadership capability and disciplines required to support growth from £70 million to £100 million+ revenue. Whilst the group benefits from outstanding facilities and a strong market position, there remains opportunity to continuously improve operational efficiency, process and capability. This role offers the chance to leave a legacy by creating the operational platform that will underpin the Group's next phase of growth.
Operational Scope
The Group Operations & Manufacturing Director has responsibility for end-to-end operational performance of the business, leading both stocked component distribution and manufacturing operations to deliver service, quality, productivity and profitable growth.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Develop and execute the operational strategy aligned to the three-year business plan.
- Lead manufacturing, warehousing, transport & logistics, planning, HSE and operational support functions across 4 sites with circa 250 employees.
- Create a high-performance culture built around Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery and People.
- Act as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, ensuring operational decisions are commercially grounded.
- Embed repeatable process foundations to scale, profitably driving manufacturing excellence across the multiple sites.
- Develop scalable warehouse, transport and inventory processes that support high component availability and strong customer service.
- Mentor and develop a strong leadership team with clear roles, standards, accountability and succession plans.
The Person
We are seeking an outstanding operations and manufacturing leader with experience across manufacturing environments with exposure to best-in-class operational practices.
Experience Required:
- Track record of leading mid to large-scale manufacturing and distribution operations scaling business efficiency as revenue grows.
- Experience driving operational excellence and business transformation.
- The ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on execution.
- Exceptional people leadership capabilities with natural gravitas and credibility.
- A passion for developing high-performing teams and cultures.
- Experience leading through change whilst maintaining employee engagement and organisational values.
- Located within a daily commute of Newton Aycliffe.
Package
An attractive basic salary, car or car allowance, bonus potential and executive benefits package commensurate with level of role.
Group Operations & Manufacturing Director employer: The Danesmoor Group
The Danesmoor Group is an excellent employer located in Newton Aycliffe, offering a dynamic work environment where attention to detail and teamwork are highly valued. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that encourages personal growth and development, alongside competitive pay and health and safety practices that prioritise well-being. Join us to be part of a team that thrives on collaboration and achieving daily targets together.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Operations & Manufacturing Director
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like The Danesmoor Group, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Operations & Manufacturing Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to The Danesmoor Group specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Danesmoor Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with The Danesmoor Group, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like The Danesmoor Group value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
