Operations Manager

Mansell Recruitment Group; Pulborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing firm in Pulborough seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead activities across two UK sites. Responsibilities include defining strategic plans, ensuring operational excellence, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate has experience in high mix, low volume manufacturing and strong leadership skills. Joining this senior leadership role offers the opportunity to impact the strategic direction of the business.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing advanced electronics operations in a B2B environment.
• Strong ERP/MRP systems knowledge.
• Technical understanding of manufacturing processes and Lean principles.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Define site goals and strategic plans aligned with corporate strategy.
• Drive operational excellence and profitability.
• Champion customer requirements to ensure product delivery.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and communication.

Skills

Team-building

Communication

Lean principles

Budget management

ERP/MRP systems knowledge

Continuous improvement

Customer engagement

Tools

Microsoft 365

Excel

Power BI

Job description

Overview

An established international manufacturer is seeking an Operations Manager to lead activities across two UK sites. This role will oversee Planning, Stores, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Engineering, New Product Introduction (NPI), and Facilities in a high mix, low volume environment. The successful candidate will drive efficiency, ensure customer requirements are met, and lead a culture of continuous improvement aligned with Lean principles.

As part of the site's senior leadership team, the Operations Manager will contribute to the strategic direction of the business and ensure operational objectives support long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Define site goals, objectives, and strategic plans in line with wider corporate strategy.
• Direct activities and resources to achieve operational excellence, efficiency, and profitability, while ensuring flexibility to meet changing market needs.
• Champion customer requirements, ensuring products are delivered on time, to specification, and to the highest quality.
• Work closely with the site management team to communicate performance, objectives, and any critical issues that could impact delivery.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and communication across the business.
• Establish KPIs and monitor performance, costs, and quality, providing clear reporting and action plans where required.
• Provide leadership across operations, motivating and developing teams to achieve business objectives.
• Identify skills gaps, implement training, and coach employees to maximise organisational capability.
• Build a culture of engagement and accountability, fostering empowerment and ownership across all levels.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure cost control across operations.
• Liaise with external suppliers and service providers as required.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, health and safety standards, and all relevant statutory requirements.

Candidate Profile

• Experience in managing advanced electronics operations in a B2B environment.
• Experience leading high mix, low volume manufacturing with complex, customised product lines.
• Strong ERP/MRP systems knowledge.
• Technical understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and Lean principles (Six Sigma Green Belt minimum).
• Proven budget management experience and commercial awareness.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and communication skills, with the ability to develop and retain talent.
• Strong understanding of UK labour laws and operational regulations.
• Highly proficient with Microsoft 365 tools, particularly Excel and Power BI.
• Confident engaging with OEM customers and maintaining long-term relationships.
• Demonstrated passion for driving transformational change and continuous improvement.

Salary
Details will be discussed during the recruitment process