Director of Operations

Director of Operations

Full-Time 80000 - 120000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead operational strategies and drive innovation in a fast-growing manufacturing business.
  • Company: Join a leading manufacturer expanding globally, specialising in innovative construction products.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, company car, bonuses, and 23 days holiday plus bank holidays.
  • Why this job: Be part of a values-driven team focused on innovation and high-performance buildings.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership in operations, ideally within global manufacturing or construction-related sectors.
  • Other info: Experience a modern work environment with career development opportunities and a supportive culture.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.

Operations Director – Worcestershire

Location: Worcester

Salary: £100,000 – £150,000 + Car/Allowance + Bonus + Benefits

A leading manufacturing and distribution business—currently undergoing exciting international expansion—is seeking an experienced Operations Director to join its senior leadership team.

The business operates across Europe, Australia, and the Americas, and specialises in manufacturing innovative products for the construction industry.

The products are sold direct to Principle Contractors, Specialist Subcontractors & Installers and via Architects & Specifiers.

The Role

Reporting directly to the board, the Operations Director will lead cross-functional operational excellence across production, new product development (NPD), purchasing, HSQE, & Logistics.

You’ll play a pivotal role in driving innovation, efficiency, and growth through process optimisation and strategic leadership.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, develop, and execute operational strategies to support scale-up and growth
  • Align production, R&D, and commercial teams to accelerate New Product Development execution
  • Drive manufacturing, sourcing, and logistics innovation
  • Champion digital transformation and implement technology based efficiencies
  • Oversee production, purchasing, H&S, quality, and technical departments
  • Ensure regulatory and quality compliance across operations
  • Develop and report on KPIs including efficiency, cost control, and DIFOT
  • Foster a high-performance culture with mentoring and leadership

Key KPIs Include

  • Operational Efficiency (Production Output vs. Target)
  • Cost Management (Cost per Unit)
  • DIFOT – 98% Target (Despatched/Delivered In Full On Time)
  • Quality Metrics (Return Rate, Waste Reduction)

Candidate Profile

  • Proven senior leadership in operations within a fast-growth or global manufacturing business

( ideally Construction related products)

  • Experience in New Product Development operations, production scaling, and supply chain management
  • Demonstrable success with technology-led operational improvements
  • Inspirational, people-first leadership style with strong cross-functional influence
  • A strategic thinker with a hands-on, collaborative approach

Package

  • £100,000 – £140,000 Base
  • Company car
  • Quarterly bonus scheme
  • 23 days holiday + bank holidays + paid birthday off
  • Company pension scheme
  • Eye care voucher scheme
  • Wellbeing initiatives and a supportive team culture
  • Subsistence policy for business travel
  • Modern, open-plan working environment with breakfast and refreshments provided
  • Career development and progression opportunities

Why Join?

Join a values-driven company with a global footprint and a mission to innovate safer, high-performance buildings. This role offers the chance to influence the next chapter of growth in a business where teamwork, transparency, and innovation are at the heart of everything.

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Director of Operations employer: Whiteoak Associates

As a leading manufacturing and distribution business, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that champions innovation and operational excellence. Located in Worcester, our team enjoys a modern, open-plan environment with ample opportunities for career development, alongside competitive benefits such as a company car, quarterly bonuses, and wellbeing initiatives. Join us to be part of a values-driven organisation that prioritises teamwork and transparency while making a significant impact in the construction industry.
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Contact Detail:

Whiteoak Associates Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Operations

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the manufacturing and construction sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the company or role.

✨Tip Number 2

Research the latest trends in operational excellence and digital transformation within the manufacturing industry. Being knowledgeable about current innovations can help you stand out during discussions.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven operational efficiency and cost management in previous roles. Use metrics and KPIs to illustrate your impact and success.

✨Tip Number 4

Familiarise yourself with the company's products and their applications in the construction industry. Understanding their offerings will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to their growth.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations

Strategic Leadership
Operational Excellence
Cross-Functional Team Alignment
New Product Development (NPD)
Supply Chain Management
Process Optimisation
Digital Transformation
Regulatory Compliance
Quality Assurance
Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Development
Cost Management
Manufacturing Innovation
People Management
Collaborative Problem Solving
Change Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in operations, particularly in fast-growth or global manufacturing environments. Emphasise any roles where you've led cross-functional teams or driven innovation.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the specific responsibilities and key performance indicators mentioned in the job description. Showcase your leadership style and how it aligns with the company's values of teamwork and innovation.

Highlight Relevant Achievements: When detailing your work experience, focus on quantifiable achievements related to operational efficiency, cost management, and successful new product development. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact.

Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, illustrate your strategic approach to operations. Discuss how you have previously implemented technology-led improvements and how you plan to drive growth in this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Whiteoak Associates

✨Understand the Business Landscape

Familiarise yourself with the company's operations, especially in manufacturing and distribution. Research their products, target markets, and recent international expansions to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.

✨Showcase Leadership Experience

Prepare examples of your previous leadership roles, particularly in fast-growth or global manufacturing environments. Highlight your experience in driving operational excellence and how you've successfully led cross-functional teams.

✨Emphasise Strategic Thinking

Be ready to discuss your approach to strategic planning and process optimisation. Share specific instances where your strategic decisions have led to improved efficiency or innovation within an organisation.

✨Prepare for KPI Discussions

Understand the key performance indicators relevant to the role, such as operational efficiency and cost management. Be prepared to discuss how you have previously developed and reported on KPIs, and how you can apply this in the new role.

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