Director of Operations

Optimum TA Ltd; Northampton; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Northampton is seeking a Director of Operations to lead the production site specialising in telecoms products. You will oversee operational activities, manage teams, and implement ISO compliance standards. The ideal candidate has strong operational leadership experience and a collaborative management style. Competitive salary package offered, including bonuses and car.

Benefits

Car allowance

25% bonus

Qualifications

• Proven operational leadership in manufacturing, ideally within telecoms.
• Visible management style, able to engage and lead teams effectively.
• Strong understanding of ISO systems and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all site operations, ensuring quality and delivery targets.
• Implement a strong safety culture and conduct audits.
• Manage supplier relationships and material quality control.

Skills

Operational leadership

Safety management

Process efficiency

Team management

ISO compliance

Job description

Director of Operations - Manufacturing

Northampton

£70,000 to £90,000 + car + 25% bonus

Are you a hands‑on operational leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑tech manufacturing environment?

We’re seeking an experienced Director of Operations – Manufacturing to take full ownership of a UK production site specialising in telecoms products. This is a visible, on‑the‑floor leadership role that demands energy, commercial awareness, and the ability to drive results through people, process, and performance.

The opportunity

You’ll be responsible for the day‑to‑day running of all operational activities at the Northampton facility, ensuring the site operates safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards of quality. Working closely with the local Managing Director, you’ll lead a broad remit covering production, engineering, logistics, quality, and HSE, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

What you’ll be doing

• Overseeing all site operations, ensuring output, quality, and delivery targets are consistently met
• Leading Health & Safety on site, personally conducting audits and embedding a strong safety culture
• Driving process efficiency, minimising downtime, and ensuring maintenance and production plans align
• Partnering with R&D to support new product trials and the introduction of new technologies
• Managing supplier relationships, procurement activity, and material quality control
• Overseeing logistics, warehousing, and outbound shipments to ensure on‑time, compliant delivery
• Championing quality standards and ISO compliance across the site (9001, 14001, 45001, 50001)
• Tracking site KPIs and using data insights to enhance performance and engagement

What we’re looking for

• Proven operational leadership within a manufacturing environment producing technically complex products – ideally within telecoms, electrical, or related sectors
• A visible, practical management style – someone who leads from the front, builds strong relationships, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves
• Experience managing teams across production, logistics, and quality
• Strong understanding of ISO systems, HSE frameworks, and continuous improvement methodologies
• A collaborative approach, with the confidence to challenge and inspire

This is a rare opportunity to make a measurable impact in a growing business where operational excellence and innovation go hand‑in‑hand.

If you’re ready to take on a leadership role where you can truly shape performance, culture, and capability, we’d love to hear from you.