Head of Operations

Gruopo 3D España y Portugal S.L.L.; Darwen; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Darwen is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee production processes and drive operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in a similar role, particularly in aerospace manufacturing. Responsibilities include aligning demand forecasting, improving operational efficiency, and leading a high-performing team. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in an equivalent role/environment.
• Aerospace manufacturing experience.
• Demonstrable experience in an advanced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Own the monthly SIOP process to align demand forecasting and capacity planning.
• Direct manufacturing operations to meet production schedules and cost targets.
• Drive performance with continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Operational excellence

Manufacturing processes

KPI management

Team leadership

Continuous improvement

Job description

Overview

Operations Manager / Head of Operations – Competitive + Benefits – Darwen – Days Only

gap technical are proud to be representing this manufacturing business in their search for an Operations Manager to work at their facility based near Darwen.

Responsibilities

• Own the monthly SIOP process to align demand forecasting, capacity planning, material levels, and resource allocation.
• Develop and execute processes to meet company goals, focusing on quality, safety, and performance metrics.
• Direct and coordinate manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, cost targets, and quality standards.
• Drive performance with continuous improvement to increase productivity and utilisation whilst reducing scrap.
• Collaborate with the CEO on operational initiatives, in line with customer requirements.
• Identify and implement technology solutions to improve operational efficiency.
• Reinforce the importance of standard work, adherence to core manufacturing principles, and discipline of processes within operations.
• Specifically drive OTD/OTIF, utilisation and efficiency.
• Oversee load and capacity, work with planning to ensure data is analysed; liaise with the operations team to ensure adequate resources to fulfil demand.
• Utilise the operations team effectively, identifying skillsets to fulfil production requirements on time.
• Optimise planning and lead times while ensuring readiness to support demand volatility.
• Implement workflows to improve operational efficiency, reduce cost and increase throughput.
• Drive data-driven KPIs to fully optimise operational efficiency.
• Ensure all operations comply with regulations, safety standards and internal policies.
• Lead risk management efforts and develop contingency plans for operational disruptions.
• Maintain a safe working environment and lead health and safety.
• Ensure compliance with quality and aerospace regulations such as NADCAP, ISO 9001 with support from the quality assurance team.
• Drive non-conformance resolution and planning for resolutions.
• Develop and lead a high-performing operations team across multiple departments and shifts.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, focusing on the tactful aspects within operations.
• Drive accountability and operational excellence throughout the team to succeed.
• Develop a long-term workforce plan that supports growth, succession and evolution. Review skillsets to ensure agility and scalability.
• Establish clear expectations and conduct regular reviews/team meetings, providing feedback to the operational team.

Person Specification

• Time served industry professional
• 10+ years in an equivalent role/environment
• A proven track record of driving operational excellence
• Aerospace manufacturing experience
• Strong understanding of the company's industry and operational dynamics
• Demonstrable experience in an advanced manufacturing environment
• Demonstrate experience in decision-making roles
• Previous experience with KPIs, being target driven whilst supporting continuous improvement

Apply

Please send your CV via the Apply now option on the website. If you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency. gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job.

Closing Date: 09/10/2025

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