Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and scale the entire manufacturing operation for a fast-growing SME.
- Company: Ambitious FMCG manufacturing business based in Kent with big growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary around ÂŁ60,000 and a genuine leadership role.
- Why this job: Shape the future of operations and make a real impact on growth.
- Qualifications: Proven operations leader with a strong grip on costs and margins.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to build structure in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
An ambitious, fast-growing SME manufacturing business based in Kent is looking for a hands-on Head of Operations to help take the business through its next phase of growth. Supplying high-quality products to major customers across the UK, the business has big plans for 2026 and beyond. This role is central to making that growth happen — building strong operational foundations while keeping pace with increasing demand.
The Opportunity
This is not a “keep-the-lights-on” operations role. It’s a chance to own, shape and scale the entire manufacturing operation. You’ll take full responsibility for day-to-day operations, procurement, production, supply chain, inventory and cost control — ensuring the site is efficient, well-controlled and ready to grow. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you’ll be a key voice in how the business evolves.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Owning the end-to-end manufacturing operation and operational performance
- Procuring raw materials, packaging, logistics and services at the right cost and quality
- Negotiating with suppliers and building strong, scalable partnerships
- Putting the right processes, controls and disciplines in place — without killing agility
- Leading and motivating production and operations teams on the ground
- Driving efficiency, accountability and continuous improvement
- Making sure customers receive orders on time, every time
About You
- A proven operations leader who thrives in entrepreneurial, growing businesses
- Commercially sharp with a strong grip on costs and margins
- Comfortable being both strategic and hands-on when needed
- Confident managing people, suppliers and operational complexity
- Excited by building structure, not just maintaining it
- Experience in FMCG, food manufacturing or complex supply chains is beneficial, but mindset matters more than sector background.
Why Join?
- A genuine leadership role in a scaling SME
- The chance to build an operation fit for the next stage of growth
- Direct influence on how the business performs and grows
- Competitive salary around ÂŁ60,000
- If you enjoy building, improving and taking ownership — this role will suit you.
Head of Operations - FMCG Manufacturing Scale-Up in Basildon employer: The People Co. / Make Jobs
Contact Detail:
The People Co. / Make Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations - FMCG Manufacturing Scale-Up in Basildon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their products, values, and future plans. We want you to walk in there with confidence, ready to show how you can help them scale up operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs. We suggest crafting a narrative that highlights your hands-on approach and operational successes — make it personal and relatable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations - FMCG Manufacturing Scale-Up in Basildon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Operations role. Highlight your achievements in operations, procurement, and team leadership to show us you’re the right fit for our ambitious plans.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re excited about this opportunity and how your background makes you the perfect candidate to help us scale our operations. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. We want to know how you motivate teams and drive efficiency. Share specific examples of how you've built strong operational foundations in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
How to prepare for a job interview at The People Co. / Make Jobs
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's operations. Understand their supply chain, production processes, and any recent changes in their manufacturing strategy. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how you can enhance their operational efficiency.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to talk about your leadership approach. Share specific examples of how you've motivated teams and driven continuous improvement in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on management will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific operational challenges. Think about scenarios related to procurement, cost control, or supplier negotiations. Practising your responses will help you articulate your problem-solving skills effectively during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Acumen
Since this role requires a strong grip on costs and margins, be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and improved profitability in past positions. Use concrete numbers and outcomes to illustrate your impact, showing that you understand the financial side of operations.
