At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead multi-site operations and drive efficiency in a dynamic automotive manufacturing environment.
- Company: Ambitious UK automotive manufacturing group focused on precision engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, car allowance, private healthcare, and generous holiday.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant impact and career growth in a thriving industry.
- Why this job: Shape the future of manufacturing while leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in multi-site manufacturing and operational transformation.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 185000 £ per year.
A Midlands-based automotive manufacturing group is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to oversee its multi-site operations. The company operates across several UK locations serving major automotive OEM clients. With a strong focus on precision engineering, assembly and process automation, the group is entering a phase of operational transformation to standardise processes, improve efficiency, and embed a high-performance culture across its UK operations.
The role demands a senior executive who combines strategic vision with practical, hands-on leadership across operational sites. This is a critical appointment for an experienced leader capable of managing large-scale, high-volume manufacturing operations while driving efficiency, quality, safety, and consistent delivery performance.
Key responsibilities:- Full accountability for all operational performance across the group’s UK sites
- Leading Directors and site managers across multiple manufacturing sites
- Ensuring operational efficiency, quality, safety and cost control
- Developing and embedding standardised manufacturing processes and lean principles
- Driving continuous improvement and automation initiatives
- Managing the operational P&L and contributing to business growth
- Partnering with commercial and technical teams to deliver customer requirements for automotive clients
- Building and mentoring a high-performing operations leadership team
- Supporting workforce planning, talent development and operational succession
- Significant senior operational experience in multi-site manufacturing, ideally within Tier 1 automotive supply chains
- Proven track record of leading operational transformation, standardisation and continuous improvement programs
- Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, automation, and digital factory initiatives
- Experience managing high-volume production environments with complex supply chains
- Demonstrable P&L ownership and experience in cost optimisation
- Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, capable of motivating and developing operational teams
- Confident working at Board level and driving strategic operational decisions
- Degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, MBA or equivalent advantageous
- Based within a reasonable commuting distance of Central England, with flexibility for site travel
This is a fantastic opportunity for an operational leader to shape the future of a growing UK manufacturing business. The successful candidate will have the authority and responsibility to standardise operations across multiple sites, embed best practice, and ensure consistent delivery for automotive clients while driving efficiency, profitability and a high-performance culture.
How to apply: Please click “apply”, or for further information, please contact Ajay Bhella at Umbilical Limited. Alternatively, please email me an up-to-date copy of your CV to ajay@umbilicaladvanced.com.
Umbilical Limited is committed to promoting Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. We act as a neutral third party in the recruitment process, basing our candidate searches on skills and experience. We do not discriminate based on age, gender, sex, relationship status, disability, race, religion/beliefs, or sexual orientation.
Chief Operating Officer - Legal employer: Umbilical Advanced
Umbilical Search offers an exceptional opportunity for an Engineering Manager in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, within a well-established manufacturing business that prioritises operational excellence and continuous improvement. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth and development, providing employees with the chance to lead innovative engineering projects while ensuring a safe and efficient production environment. With a commitment to modern manufacturing technologies and a focus on team development, this role is perfect for those seeking a meaningful career in a dynamic and supportive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer - Legal
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with current or former employees in similar roles. This is your chance to learn about the company culture and expectations while also making a great impression. We recommend asking insightful questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your achievements and how they relate to the COO role. We want to see how you’ve driven operational transformation and efficiency in past positions. Bring this to interviews to back up your claims with real examples!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer - Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Chief Operating Officer. Highlight your experience in multi-site manufacturing and operational transformation, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your leadership skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for operational excellence and how you plan to drive efficiency and quality across our sites. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, focus on your experience with lean manufacturing and automation initiatives. We want to see how you've successfully managed high-volume production environments and contributed to P&L ownership. Be specific!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Umbilical Advanced
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Operating Officer, you'll need to demonstrate your grasp of P&L management and operational metrics. Brush up on key financial figures related to manufacturing efficiency, cost optimisation, and performance indicators. Be ready to discuss how you've driven improvements in these areas in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about how you can convey your approach to managing teams. Prepare examples of how you've built high-performing teams and mentored leaders in the past. Highlight your experience in motivating teams during operational transformations and how you foster a culture of continuous improvement.
✨Understand Lean Principles
Since the company is focused on standardising processes and lean manufacturing, make sure you can speak confidently about your experience with these methodologies. Prepare to discuss specific lean initiatives you've implemented and the results they achieved. This will show that you're not just familiar with the concepts but have successfully applied them.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Given the seniority of this position, expect to engage in strategic conversations. Familiarise yourself with the company's current challenges and opportunities in the automotive sector. Be ready to share your vision for operational transformation and how you would align it with the company's goals, demonstrating your ability to think at a board level.
