Head of Operations

Position 1 Recruitment Limited; Diss; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the electronic and composite solutions sector is seeking a Head of UK Operations based in Diss. This role involves overseeing operational activities across multiple sites, driving efficiency and safety, and contributing to strategic direction. The successful candidate will have substantial experience in manufacturing operations and leadership, supported by relevant qualifications.

Benefits

25 days’ annual leave plus 8 public holidays

Group Personal Pension with contributions

Life Assurance at 4x annual salary

Discretionary Company Bonus Scheme

Social Impact Day for community support

Qualifications

• Proven track record in leading manufacturing teams.
• Strong knowledge of Environmental, Health, and Safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all UK operational activities across multiple sites.
• Drive continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.
• Play an active role in shaping the broader business strategy.

Skills

Leadership

Safety Management

Process Management

Team Management

Strategic Thinking

Education

Degree in Business Management or equivalent

IOSH Managing Safely certification

Job description

Head of UK Operations / Diss / Salary competitive depending on experience

Position 1 Recruitment is working with a client that has been delivering advanced electronic, electrical, and composite solutions for over 30 years. With deep roots in high-performance and technically demanding industries, their products are trusted globally in some of the toughest environments.

Head of UK Operationswill lead and manage all UK operational activities across multiple sites, ensuring alignment with the company’s overarching strategic objectives.
This role focuses on delivering high standards in efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement, while maintaining a strong focus on profitability. You won’t just be keeping operations running, you’ll play a critical role in guiding the overall direction of the business. Your leadership will be key to driving operational success, enhancing team performance, and achieving our strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safety Leadership– Champion a safety-first culture (hi-vis optional but encouraged). Work closely with the SHEQ team to maintain high safety standards and minimize risk.

• Multi-Site Management– Oversee multiple UK manufacturing sites, ensuring operations run as smoothly as a freshly greased machine.

• Team Leadership– Lead, support, and coach the senior management team—think of it as mentoring with a strategic mindset.

• Operational Excellence– Drive continuous improvement in manufacturing processes to boost efficiency, enhance quality, and control costs.

• Strategic Alignment– Ensure day-to-day operations align with the organisation’s long-term objectives.

• Strategic Contribution– Play an active role in shaping the broader business strategy (yes, you’ll have a seat at the table).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration– Work closely with procurement, technical, and finance teams to maintain alignment and collaboration across departments.

• Performance Management– Empower site managers by setting SMART goals and offering feedback that’s more helpful than intimidating.

• Resource Management– Balance people, tools, and time effectively to meet production targets—while keeping a firm grip on the budget.

The successfulHead of UK Operationswill possess a proven track record in leading remote and non remote manufacturing teams, along with a degree in Business Management or an equivalent qualification. Will have an in-depth understanding of manufacturing operations and demonstrate the ability to operate effectively at both a strategic level and in hands-on situations. Strong process management skills and solid knowledge of Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) practices are essential, with IOSH Managing Safely certification considered a valuable asset.

This is a full-time, permanent position with hours from Monday to Friday.

Benefits Package Includes:

· 25 days’ annual leave, plus 8 public holidays

· Group Personal Pension (after 3 months' service): 6% employer contribution and 3% employee contribution

· Life Assurance at 4x annual salary

· Discretionary Company Bonus Scheme

· Social Impact Day – one day per year dedicated to volunteering or community support

· Hybrid working available (Please note: this is primarily a site-based role due to its operational focus. However, after an initial period of approximately 8–12 months, occasional home working may be possible, provided it does not impact operational requirements.)

Note:This position is not eligible for sponsorship.