At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations, drive process improvements, and ensure project success.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, flexible hours, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising operations and leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Management experience and knowledge of lean techniques required.
- Other info: Great career progression and learning opportunities in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The post holder will be responsible for playing a pivotal role in streamlining and enhancing our operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing day-to-day activities, driving process improvements, and ensuring the overall success of production and project delivery. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of operational management.
Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee all aspects of daily operations, including manufacturing, assembly, stores production planning, and project execution, inclusive of NPI and Aftermarket.
- Implement strategies to optimise efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall operational performance.
- Focus on waste reduction & the eradication of non-value-added activities.
- Develop and act upon plans to facilitate process improvement.
- Monitor & improve cost-productivity measures & operational improvements through increased efficiencies & performance.
- Support, coach and develop the Operations team in all aspects of their roles to create and deploy a dynamic, high performing and efficient team.
- Focus on delivery for our customers across all revenue streams (NPI, Serial, Aftermarket) both internally and externally.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement lean methodologies to enhance productivity and reduce lead times.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Analyse capacity within production, continually review processes and implement actions to maximize capacity and efficiency.
- Develop an ‘improvement culture’ with your dedicated operations team.
- Work closely with the Quality department to ensure that products meet or exceed quality standards.
- Implement and maintain quality control measures within the production processes.
- Efficiently allocate resources, including manpower, equipment, and materials, to meet production goals and customer requirements.
- Collaborate with the HR department for workforce planning and development.
- Collaborate with the supply chain team to optimise the supply chain delivery, ensuring timely procurement of materials and components.
- Establish strong relationships with internal supply chain and logistics departments.
- Implement and monitor safety protocols to create a secure working environment.
- Promote a 'Safety First' Culture by ensuring that the site is meeting appropriate HSE and ISO14001 standards and is legally compliant.
- Contribute to the development and execution of long-term operational strategies aligned with organisational goals.
Reward
- Competitive salary
- Annual bonus (linked to company performance)
- 33 days annual leave (Increase after 5 years' service)
- 37.5 hours per week
- Flexi time working
- £5,000 employee referral bonus
- Health cash plan
- Contributory Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme
- Holiday Purchase Scheme - Salary Sacrifice
- Electric Car Scheme - Salary Sacrifice
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Life Assurance Scheme at x4 gross salary
- Competitive enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay
- IVF & Assisted Conception Policy
- Women in Business - Corporate Member
- Wellbeing Initiatives
- Employee Recognition scheme
- Service Awards
- Local charity / sponsorship activities
- Dedicated employee parking
- Discounted Gym membership
- Learning and development opportunities
- Career progression
Requirements
Essential
- Minimum of one year's management experience having full responsibility of a business function/unit.
- Demonstrate in-depth working knowledge of lean, CI techniques and process improvement projects.
- Effective motivational, coordination, and communication skills - both verbal and written.
- Proven change management experience.
- Experienced leader with strong record of hiring, training, and leading many direct & indirect reports and production staff.
- Proven ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative to achieve targets.
- Possess strong IT skills including Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience working with customers, regulators, and suppliers.
Desirable
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in engineering or manufacturing.
- ILM Qualification.
- Working knowledge of Airbus and/or Boeing systems and processes.
- Understanding of NPI process and procedures utilised with TAS.
We reserve the right to enhance criteria on shortlisting. Thompson Aero Seating is an Equal Opportunities employer. The closing date for applications is the 15th February 2026 at 17:00. For further information contact careers@thompsonaero.com.
Operations Manager in Portadown employer: Thompson Aero Seating
Contact Detail:
Thompson Aero Seating Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Portadown
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their challenges and think about how your skills can help streamline their processes. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the solution they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've driven process improvements or led teams to success. This will showcase your experience and align with what they're looking for in an Operations Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Portadown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational management. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements in streamlining processes and leading teams.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As an Operations Manager, strong leadership is key. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to motivate and develop teams. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or improved team performance in the past.
Highlight Process Improvement Experience: We’re all about efficiency and continuous improvement here at StudySmarter. Be sure to include any relevant experience you have with lean methodologies or process optimisation. Concrete examples will make your application stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thompson Aero Seating
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's operations. Understand their processes, challenges, and successes. This will help you speak confidently about how you can streamline and enhance their operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in coaching and developing team members, as well as any change management initiatives you've implemented. This will demonstrate your ability to create a high-performing team.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Process Improvements
Think of specific instances where you've identified opportunities for process improvement. Be prepared to discuss lean methodologies you've used and how they resulted in increased efficiency or reduced costs. This shows you're proactive and results-driven.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Communication
Operations management is all about teamwork. Be ready to talk about how you've collaborated with cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how they've helped you achieve operational goals, ensuring everyone is on the same page.