At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a team while improving operational performance in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Growing organisation focused on leadership and operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Monday to Friday schedule, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Opportunity to improve processes and work with a skilled team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing company and develop future leaders.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in hands-on operational environments.
The predicted salary is between 40950 - 50050 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Production, Manufacturing or Operations Manager who is as good at developing people as you are at improving operational performance? We are recruiting on behalf of a growing organisation looking for an Operations Manager to lead a team of 29 people at its Bilsthorpe site. We are interested in experienced operational leaders from manufacturing, engineering, processing, waste, recycling or other hands-on industrial environments. What is important is your ability to lead people, develop capability, maintain high safety and compliance standards and improve the way an operation performs.
The Bilsthorpe site collects and processes used waste oil. Incoming materials are tested before being safely stored and processed, with the Operations team working closely with Laboratory and Compliance colleagues. You will have day-to-day responsibility for the operation, leading 25 operatives, two Team Leaders and a Supervisor. This is an experienced team with good operational knowledge. They need an Operations Manager who will be visible, approachable and confident; someone who can set clear expectations while coaching and developing people.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading and developing the operational team
- Developing skills and knowledge across the workforce to improve flexibility and operational coverage
- Maintaining high standards of health, safety and environmental compliance
- Managing a busy operation where multiple activities and deliveries need to be coordinated
- Working closely with Laboratory, Compliance and other departments
- Improving processes, productivity and operational efficiency
- Driving continuous improvement and introducing best practice
- Managing operational costs and contributing to budget control
We are looking for a proven operational leader. Your industry background is less important than your ability to demonstrate that you have successfully led and developed people within a hands-on operational environment. You will ideally have:
- Proven production or operational leadership experience
- Experience leading and developing operational teams
- A practical, hands-on and visible management style
- Strong health and safety awareness
- Experience improving operational processes and performance
- The ability to coach people and develop future leaders
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- The confidence to work effectively across different departments and levels of seniority
- Experience of budgets and cost control
Experience within hazardous waste would be useful, but it is not essential. Relevant experience could come from manufacturing, engineering, processing or another safety-led industrial environment.
This isn't simply an opportunity to maintain an existing operation. The organisation is growing and investing in its leadership, people and operational processes as it prepares for further expansion. You will have the opportunity to develop an established team, improve how the site operates and make a visible impact. There is also genuine scope for future career progression, and, unlike many operational positions, this role offers a Monday-to-Friday daytime working pattern.
Salary: £57,000 - £65,000
Operations Manager employer: Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd
Join a leading food manufacturer in Skelmersdale, where you'll be part of a modern, highly automated production facility that prioritises employee development and well-being. With a strong focus on continuous improvement, competitive salaries, and a supportive team culture, this role offers not just a job but a pathway to long-term career growth in a dynamic environment. Enjoy excellent benefits including a quarterly bonus, subsidised canteen, and additional perks that make this an attractive workplace for skilled engineers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.