Operations Manager

Holt Recruitment Group Limited; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive manufacturing company in Eastleigh is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee all operational functions and drive exceptional production efficiency. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in a manufacturing setting, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of lean principles. This role involves achieving operational KPIs, adherence to quality standards, and fostering team engagement. Competitive salary of £60,000 – £65,000 plus benefits and bonus is offered.

Qualifications

• Significant experience managing operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of lean principles and continuous improvement techniques.
• Proficient in data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all production and planning functions to achieve business objectives.
• Deliver operational KPIs and report on performance to senior management.
• Champion 5S methodology and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with sales departments to align operations with demand.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Management Systems (ISO standards).

Skills

People management

Leadership

Change management

Lean principles

Data-driven decision making

Education

Formal qualification in lean/continuous improvement

Tools

Microsoft Office

ERP systems

Job description

Operations Manager

Location: Eastleigh, Hampshire

Salary: £60,000 – £65,000 + Benefits & Bonus

About the Role

Are you an inspirational operations leader seeking your next challenge in a progressive manufacturing environment? We are looking for an Operations Manager to lead and oversee all operational functions, ensuring exceptional production efficiency, stringent quality, cost control, and consistent on-time delivery.

As a key member of the management team, you will take full ownership of operational KPIs, drive a culture of 5S and continuous improvement, and ensure operational capacity aligns with customer demand. This role is ideal for a strategic thinker with proven experience managing teams and leading change, who thrives in a dynamic and quality-driven setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all production and planning functions to achieve business objectives.
• Deliver operational KPIs and report on performance to senior management.
• Champion 5S methodology and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Work closely with production management to ensure health, safety, quality, and cost targets are achieved.
• Oversee scheduling, capacity planning, and resource allocation to meet customer requirements.
• Collaborate with sales and other departments to align operations with demand and delivery timelines.
• Ensure strict adherence to Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, EN 9100).
• Maintain compliance with export controls and all legal, quality, and environmental standards.
• Implement process improvements to drive efficiency and eliminate waste.
• Develop and maintain SOPs for operational consistency.
• Manage operational budgets, balancing cost, quality, and service.
• Provide leadership and coaching to direct reports, creating a positive and engaged team culture.
• Support the progression of SC21 standards.

What You'll Need

• Significant experience managing operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of lean principles, 5S, and continuous improvement techniques.
• Excellent people management, leadership, and change management capability.
• Financial and commercial acumen linked to operational performance.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Ability to make informed, data-driven decisions under pressure.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Desirable: Formal qualification in lean/continuous improvement and/or experience in a small-to-medium enterprise.
• Legal right to work in the UK without additional sponsorship.

Ready to take ownership of a vital manufacturing operation and help shape future growth?

Apply today to join a forward‑thinking business committed to operational excellence and continuous development. Contact [e-mail] - Max Sinclair for further information.