Operations Director

Lord Search & Selection; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment consultancy is seeking an Operations Director for a fast-growing medical devices manufacturer in Suffolk. This role involves leading and scaling manufacturing operations while ensuring compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in regulated environments and a track record of building high-performing teams. A competitive salary package is offered along with the opportunity to drive significant growth.

Qualifications

• Senior manufacturing professional with experience in regulated, high-precision environments.
• Track record of successfully leading operations teams and scaling capacity rapidly.
• Strategic, hands-on leader focusing on building capability in people and systems.

Responsibilities

• Own day-to-day manufacturing site operations.
• Deliver against performance, quality, and safety targets.
• Build and mentor a high-performing management team.

Skills

Leadership in manufacturing

Regulatory compliance knowledge

Strategic planning

Change management

Job description

Overview

Medical Devices Manufacturing – to £120,000 + Bonus – Suffolk. Ref: 10121.

The Company

We are currently working in partnership with a fast-growing, contract manufacturer specialising in medical devices. The business delivers end-to-end manufacturing solutions, and has built a strong reputation for innovation, delivery and quality. Amidst significant UK and international expansion, the company is now seeking an exceptional Operations Director to lead and scale its manufacturing capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of customer confidence and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Report directly to the CEO and take full ownership of day-to-day manufacturing site operations.
• Lead a pivotal role responsible for delivering against performance, quality, and safety targets while rapidly scaling operational capacity in line with commercial growth.
• Build and mentor a high-performing management team; embed a continuous improvement culture.
• Lead operational planning across staffing, equipment, clean room utilisation, and production scheduling.
• Provide HSE leadership, ensure compliance with ISO 13485 and FDA standards, manage supplier relationships, and contribute strategically to budgeting and CAPEX planning.

The Person

• Senior manufacturing professional with experience in regulated, high-precision environments or adjacent sectors (e.g., automotive or aerospace).
• Track record of successfully leading operations teams, scaling capacity rapidly, and delivering excellence in quality, efficiency, and compliance.
• Strategic, hands-on leader who thrives in complex environments and focuses on building capability in people and systems.
• Clear, confident communication skills with high emotional intelligence and the ability to engage stakeholders from the factory floor to the boardroom.

How to Apply

This is a senior operational leadership role in a business undergoing an exciting phase of transformation and growth. If you are passionate about manufacturing excellence and motivated by the opportunity to lead operations through scale, please apply with your full CV quoting reference and detailing your current remuneration.