Operations Director (Advanced Manufacturing) - to £80k - ID43640

Humand Talent; Swindon; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing established business in advanced manufacturing seeks an experienced Operations Director to manage logistics and service delivery across the UK. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operational leadership within complex technical environments and a track record of improving performance. You will lead cross-functional teams and take ownership of operations, ensuring timely delivery and quality compliance. Competitive salary and benefits are offered, including a hybrid working model.

Benefits

Competitive salary depending on experience

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Permanent health insurance

Free on-site parking, including EV charging

Hybrid working split between sites and remote work

Qualifications

• Strong track record in operational leadership within manufacturing or technical industries.
• Experience in multi-site, customer-facing operations.
• Familiarity with quality systems such as ISO.

Responsibilities

• Oversee logistics, order fulfilment, and service delivery across UK and Irish sites.
• Ensure customer orders are delivered on time and to specifications.
• Lead and support installation, calibration, and technical service teams.

Skills

Operational leadership

Logistics management

Supply chain optimization

Technical service management

Quality systems knowledge

Education

Degree in engineering or related technical discipline

Job description

Overview

Are you experienced in leading operational functions within complex technical or manufacturing environments?

Do you understand how to scale systems and teams in a growing business?

Have you managed logistics, fulfilment, and delivery across multiple locations?

This could be the right next step in your leadership career.

About the Role

Our client, an established and fast-growing business in advanced manufacturing, is seeking an experienced Operations Director to take ownership of operations across their UK division. The role is focused on building operational strength across logistics, service delivery, supply chain, and site infrastructure. You will work closely with senior leadership and technical teams to ensure reliable delivery of high-precision systems to a global customer base.

You will lead cross-functional teams across service, support, production, and quality, helping to streamline operations and ensure consistent performance. This is a key position for someone who is ready to take full accountability for process, people, and delivery outcomes.

What You Will Be Responsible For...

Operational Management

• Oversee logistics, order fulfilment, and service delivery across UK and Irish sites
• Ensure customer orders are delivered on time and to agreed specifications
• Lead and support installation, calibration, and technical service teams
• Maintain quality systems and ensure compliance with ISO and other standards
• Collaborate with supply partners to ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing
• Maintain site infrastructure and ensure facilities are fit for purpose and scale
• Work with central IT, health and safety, and risk functions to maintain business continuity
• Take ownership of fleet and vehicle policies across the division

Process Improvement and Delivery

• Ensure quoting processes are accurate and commercially aligned
• Drive conversion of orders to revenue with clear delivery metrics
• Improve performance tracking and reporting across operations
• Establish KPIs and regular reporting for operational performance
• Support transition of internal projects to scalable, repeatable solutions
• Lead cross-functional communication between commercial and technical teams
• Build operational capacity to support business growth
• Maintain a divisional risk register and support mitigation planning

Who Should Apply

This role is well suited to an experienced operations leader with a background in complex engineering or manufacturing environments. You will need to be confident working in multi-site, customer-facing operations where delivery performance, product quality, and internal collaboration are all critical.

You will likely have

• A strong track record in operational leadership within manufacturing or technical industries
• Experience working in businesses with a focus on precision, specification, and delivery to tight deadlines
• Experience managing field engineers, installation teams, or technical service teams
• A background in logistics, supply chain, delivery operations, or project implementation
• Familiarity with quality systems such as ISO and regulatory frameworks
• A hands-on leadership style and willingness to engage with detail where needed
• The ability to provide clear communication to both technical and non-technical teams
• A focus on structure, accountability, and measurable improvement

A degree in engineering or a related technical discipline would be an advantage but is not essential if you have proven, relevant experience.

What You Will Gain

• The opportunity to take full ownership of operational delivery in a high-growth division
• A senior leadership role with meaningful input into business direction and structure
• Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and international clients
• The ability to shape team culture, process, and performance across multiple locations
• A chance to work in a supportive and commercially focused leadership team

Package and Benefits

• Competitive salary depending on experience
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Permanent health insurance
• Free on-site parking, including EV charging
• Hybrid working split between sites and remote work where appropriate

How to Apply

If you are an experienced operations leader looking for your next challenge in a growing and forward-looking business, we encourage you to apply. Please ensure your CV highlights experience in multi-site operations, service delivery, logistics, and working with technical or engineered products.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial discussion.

Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We and our client are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.