Operations Director

Henderson Brown; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company in the UK is seeking an Operations Director to provide critical leadership and drive high performance across multiple manufacturing sites. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in operations leadership and a strong background in food production. Key responsibilities include implementing strategic objectives, overseeing production and quality, and ensuring operational excellence. A commitment to continuous improvement and safety is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in food manufacturing operations.
• Strong understanding of health & safety and technical compliance.
• Financially astute with large-scale budget management experience.

Responsibilities

• Implement strategic objectives throughout all levels of the organization.
• Oversee operational aspects including Production, Engineering, Quality.
• Lead delivery of engaging people plans and performance management.

Skills

Proven experience as an Operations Director or in a senior operations leadership role within Food Manufacturing

Strong, values-led leader who can motivate, coach, and develop teams

Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills

Resilient and proactive in a fast-paced environment

Job description

This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to join an innovative, leading food manufacturing business as Operations Director. This is a critical leadership role, acting as the direct link between the Board and Operational Teams, requiring a hands‑on approach and the ability to inspire and drive high performance across multiple manufacturing sites.

This role is perfect for a results‑driven leader who thrives on building high‑performing teams, influencing a positive culture and delivering operational excellence. You will bring energy, integrity, and a passion for continuous improvement to the leadership team while holding full accountability for safety, quality, cost, and service performance across the UK manufacturing footprint.

The task at hand will be to implement strategic objectives throughout all levels of the organisation, overseeing all operational aspects of the business including Production, Engineering, Quality and Health & Safety. You’ll lead the delivery of an engaging people plan, implement effective performance management and ensure robust operational planning to deliver outstanding customer satisfaction and commercial results.

Your role will be pivotal in future‑proofing the operation, embedding lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices and supporting sustainable growth across a high‑care, fast‑paced environment.

Ideal Candidate:

• Proven experience as an Operations Director or in a senior operations leadership role within Food Manufacturing.
• Background in high‑care or chilled food production across multi‑site environments.
• Strong, values‑led leader who can motivate, coach and develop teams while maintaining accountability for results.
• Demonstrable success in driving operational strategy, delivering measurable improvements in margin, efficiency, and quality.
• Strong understanding of health & safety legislation, technical compliance and manufacturing excellence principles.
• Experience managing CAPEX projects and continuous improvement programmes.
• Financially astute, with the ability to develop and manage large-scale budgets.
• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Resilient, proactive and able to thrive in a fast‑paced, complex environment.
• Flexibility to travel across the UK as required.

If you believe you fit the requirements for this role, please apply to the role or get in touch confidentially with Will Malcolm at: [e-mail].

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