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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.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
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 upon Tyne employer: Verso Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Verso Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. 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 experience can help them achieve operational excellence. This will show you're not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership style and strategic thinking align with their goals. Highlight your experience in Lean methodologies and continuous improvement – this is what they want to hear!
✨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 take the initiative to reach out directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Lean or Six Sigma certifications you have.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence and continuous improvement in previous positions.
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 improvement plans in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This way, we can ensure your application is reviewed promptly and you get the best chance to shine!
How to prepare for a job interview at Verso Recruitment
✨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 demonstrate your strategic thinking and how you can enhance operational performance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how you've built high-performing teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've driven change and fostered a culture of continuous improvement, especially using Lean principles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Prepare scenarios where you've successfully implemented operational strategies or improved KPIs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research the company's goals and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their vision for operational excellence. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their long-term growth and success, particularly in a high-technology environment.
