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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead site operations and drive excellence in manufacturing performance.
- Company: Respected UK manufacturer in high-technology advanced engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a chance to shape operational strategy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in advanced manufacturing and strong Lean/Six Sigma knowledge.
- Other info: Join a culture of innovation and accountability with long-term career potential.
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Salary: £70 - 80K per annum
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Operations to take full ownership of site operations for a high-technology, advanced engineering manufacturer. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility across Production, Quality, Maintenance, Facilities, Supply Chain, and Logistics. You will carry entrepreneurial accountability for operational performance, ensuring the site consistently delivers excellence across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and People, while building a world-class operations function underpinned by Lean principles and KPI-driven management. Working closely with the Managing Director, you will shape and execute the site strategy, translating business goals into operational excellence and sustainable growth. This role suits a hands-on leader who combines strategic thinking with strong shop-floor presence.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic & Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Take full accountability for site operational performance and manufacturing outcomes.
- Develop and deliver the operations strategy in partnership with the Managing Director.
- Translate strategy into measurable KPIs, operational targets, and improvement plans.
- Own operational budget planning, cost control, and investment proposals with Finance.
- Lead long-term workforce planning and organisational capability development.
- Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Drive a culture of operational excellence across all manufacturing and support functions.
- Lead Lean transformation using proven methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
- Ensure continuous improvement of productivity, quality, safety, and delivery performance.
- Develop and implement new operational management methods and best practices.
- Lead workplace improvement, process optimisation, and change initiatives.
- Quality, Compliance & EHS
- Ensure full compliance with ISO 9001, legislative, and corporate requirements.
- Take site-level responsibility for Environmental, Health & Safety performance.
- Maintain strong governance, audit readiness, and process discipline.
- Ensure operational processes are defined, monitored, and consistently followed.
- People Leadership & Development
- Build, coach, and develop a high-performing multi-level operations leadership team.
- Act as a visible role model, maintaining strong engagement across the shop floor.
- Sustain Lean capability through structured training and development.
- Lead change positively, embedding a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Cross-Functional & End-to-End Operations
- Coordinate the full operational value stream from supplier to customer.
- Partner with Engineering, R&D, Quality, Commercial, and EHS teams.
- Support new product introduction and scale-up into production.
- Improve production planning, scheduling, capacity utilisation, and material flow.
About You
- Proven senior leadership experience within advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, materials, chemical, or regulated production environments.
- Strong background in operations strategy, manufacturing performance improvement, and continuous improvement.
- Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
- Demonstrated success in KPI-driven management and operational transformation.
- Solid working knowledge of quality systems and EHS requirements.
- Confident leader with excellent communication, coaching, and change management skills.
- Strong financial awareness, including budget ownership, cost control, and capital planning.
Qualifications
- Degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Lean / Six Sigma certification is highly desirable.
Why Apply
- Take ownership of a complete manufacturing site within a high-technology environment.
- Play a pivotal role in shaping operational strategy and business performance.
- Lead a culture of Lean thinking and continuous improvement.
- Join a respected UK manufacturer with strong growth and long-term career potential.
If you’re a driven and experienced Head of Operations who enjoys leading from the front, building high-performing teams, and delivering operational excellence in a technically advanced environment, this is an opportunity to make a real and lasting impact. We welcome applications from ambitious operational leaders who are ready to take full ownership of site performance and help shape the future success of a growing, innovation-led business.
Head of Operations in Newcastle employer: Verso Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
Verso Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Newcastle
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Head of Operations role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company thoroughly. Understand their operations, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in making a difference in their operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve driven operational excellence and led teams in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
✨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 and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you that Head of Operations role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Newcastle
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 leadership experience in advanced manufacturing and any relevant achievements in operational excellence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement and operational performance in previous roles.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, demonstrate your ability to translate business goals into operational strategies. We want to see how you’ve successfully implemented KPIs and led teams towards achieving them.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Verso Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's operations. Understand their production processes, quality standards, and supply chain dynamics. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can enhance operational performance and align with their strategic goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach and how you've built high-performing teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've driven a culture of continuous improvement and Lean methodologies, as this aligns perfectly with the role's requirements.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you've successfully implemented operational changes or improved KPIs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Align Your Vision with Their Strategy
Research the company's current operational strategy and be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with it. Highlight your experience in translating business goals into measurable outcomes, and demonstrate how you can contribute to their long-term growth and success.
