Head Of Production Operations

Key Selection Recruitment Limited; Wickford; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading print company in Essex seeks a Head of Production Operations to oversee production and logistics. This pivotal role requires proven leadership in Large Format Printing, a focus on operational excellence, and strong communication skills. The ideal candidate will manage complex projects and ensure quality standards are met while driving efficiency. This position offers a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Regular paid overtime opportunities

Company NEST pension contributions

Friendly and collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior production or operations leadership role within Large Format Printing.
• Comprehensive knowledge of large format printing technologies, materials, and finishing processes.
• Calm and confident under pressure, capable of managing multiple projects within tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day production and logistics operations.
• Develop, implement, and monitor production schedules and quality control systems.
• Drive operational improvement initiatives to optimise productivity.

Skills

Large Format Printing experience

Production planning and scheduling

Workflow optimisation

Quality control

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Job description

Position

Head of Production Operations

Location

Essex

Salary

Negotiable dependant on experience

Hours

8.30am - 5.30pm (Mon-Fri)

Company

A long-established, innovative Large Format Print company, with a proud reputation for quality, speed of service, and exceptional personal touch. Delivering high-quality printed graphics, managing complex and specialist projects, executing global rollouts, and overseeing expert installations for prestigious clients in a diverse range of business sectors.

Position Overview

The Head of Production Operations will play a pivotal leadership role within the business, overseeing all aspects of the Large Format Production facilities and ensuring the seamless delivery of exceptional printed products and services. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this role will be responsible for driving operational excellence, production efficiency, quality standards and team performance across production, logistics and installation departments. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership experience within the Large Format Print sector, excellent communication skills, and an inspiring approach to team management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day production and logistics operations to ensure all print jobs are delivered on time and to quality standards
• Develop, implement and continually monitor production schedules, workflow and quality control systems
• Monitor daily production schedules and proactively adjust to accommodate urgent projects, unforeseen delays or changing priorities
• Ensure clear and concise communication around job progress, lead times and delivery expectations
• Drive operational improvement initiatives to optimise productivity and reduce waste
• Work closely with Procurement to plan and forecast material requirements in line with upcoming projects and production schedules
• Manage consumable material usage efficiently to optimise costs per job
• Uphold company standards on Health and Safety and Sustainability, integrating both safety and eco-conscious practices into daily operations
• Collaborate with the senior leadership team to align production and logistics goals with broader company strategy
• Act as a bridge between departments, ensuring effective cross-department collaboration
• Support Account and Project Managers with production advice and insight
• Continuously improve quality control standards across all production stages
• Ensure consistent output aligned with client expectations
• Support the introduction of new print technologies, materials and production methods

• Proven experience in a senior production or operations leadership role within Large Format Printing
• Comprehensive knowledge of large format printing technologies, materials, and finishing processes
• Experience in production planning and scheduling to meet varied and demanding deadlines
• Strong understanding of workflow optimisation and quality control
• Demonstrable experience managing complex and prestigious projects
• Sound understanding of Health and Safety compliance and best practice with a production environment
• Strong, solution-oriented problem solving and decision-making abilities
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail
• Calm and confident under pressure, capable of managing multiple projects within tight deadlines
• Hands-on, proactive and adaptable in a fast-paced environment

Benefits

• Regular paid overtime opportunities
• Company NEST pension contributions
• A friendly, supportive, and collaborative work environment
• Gain exposure to prestigious brands and international projects
• Work with state-of-the-art printing and finishing equipment