About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially aware Operations Director to lead the manufacturing and operational function for IG Masonry Support, based in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. This is a senior leadership position responsible for the overall performance of the manufacturing operation across multiple sites and shifts, covering production, transport, people, processes, quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Working as part of the senior leadership team, the successful candidate will develop and deliver the operational strategy, ensuring resources, technology, and capabilities are aligned with the company’s growth and long‑term objectives.
What you’ll be doing
- Develop and implement the operational strategy to support business objectives, growth, and future scalability.
- Lead manufacturing and transport operations across multiple sites and shifts, ensuring safe, efficient, and timely production.
- Oversee end‑to‑end production, optimising labour, materials, equipment, capacity, and resources to maximise productivity.
- Lead and develop Production and Transport Management teams, fostering accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
- Establish and monitor operational KPIs to drive improvements in productivity, quality, service, yield, and cost.
- Maintain overall responsibility for Health & Safety, Environmental, Quality, and regulatory compliance across all operations.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, CE, Eurocodes, BBA, and other applicable standards.
- Drive continuous improvement, automation, waste reduction, and process optimisation to improve operational performance.
- Lead organisational change, new product introductions, and process improvements in collaboration with R&D and wider business teams.
- Manage operational budgets, workforce planning, and investment while identifying cost savings and developing a high‑performing operations function.
What you’ll need to succeed
To succeed in this role, you’ll bring significant senior leadership experience within a manufacturing or production environment, with a proven track record of managing complex, multi‑site or multi‑shift operations. You’ll combine strong operational, commercial, and people leadership skills with a focus on safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
You will also demonstrate:
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, Health & Safety, quality systems, capacity planning, and operational performance.
- Proven experience driving continuous improvement, automation, cost reduction, and operational efficiency while managing budgets and KPIs.
- A strong track record of leading organisational change and developing high‑performing teams in complex operational environments.
What we’re looking for
- A commercially astute and operationally focused leader who can translate business strategy into effective operational plans and measurable results.
- A confident people leader with a proven ability to develop management teams, build capability, and create a culture of accountability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- A strategic thinker with the ability to identify operational risks, drive improvement, and build scalable processes and capabilities for future growth.
- A collaborative leader who can work effectively across manufacturing, transport, R&D, commercial, HR, and the wider senior leadership team.
- Degree qualified, with significant senior leadership experience within a manufacturing or production environment.
What We Offer
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- A supportive, values-driven and inclusive working environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- 33 days annual leave, increasing with service
- Contributory Pension
- Life Assurance
- Healthcare Cashback Plan
- Enhanced Family Friendly policies
- Private Medical Insurance
- Company Car or car Allowance
- Additional employee benefits including, access to our Cycle to Work Scheme, Employee Discount Scheme, Employee Recognition awards, Employee Assistance Programme.
A Bit About Us
For more than three decades, the Keystone Group has grown to become one of the UK and Ireland’s largest family‑owned construction product manufacturers. Driven by a relentless focus on innovation and customer excellence, the Group employs over 2,000 employees across 28 sites, supplying cutting‑edge building solutions to growing markets in the UK & Ireland, Europe, Australia and North America. Its portfolio includes market‑leading brands in the steel, light & environmental and timber sectors.
IG Masonry Support Systems is part of the Keystone Group and has combined experience with innovation to design and manufacture the most practical and advanced range of stainless steel masonry support products and revolutionary brick slip soffit systems. IG Masonry Support goes above and beyond to provide the highest quality, accredited products in the construction industry.
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Operations Director employer: The Keystone Group
Keystone Lintels is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for an Internal Sales Advisor to thrive. With a strong focus on professional development and career progression, employees benefit from a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a range of employee perks, all while contributing to innovative solutions in the steel lintel industry. Located in Derbyshire, the company offers a dynamic environment where teamwork and customer relationships are at the forefront, ensuring meaningful and rewarding employment.
